Also known as: Tempio Maggiore Also known as: The Major Temple Built: 1874-1882 Designed by: Vincenzo Micheli Type: Holy Place Location: Via Farini 4, Florence, Italy
W hile Italy is a largely Catholic country, the Jewish Synagogue of Florence is a welcome addition to the Florentine skyline. Its huge copper dome fits in perfectly with the neighboring community and the other great buildings of this city. The synagogue is described as Moorish, but also includes healthy doses of Byzantine and Egyptian influence. Its façade uses two distinct types of marble in order to harmonize with the surrounding architecture. The synagogue has seen better days. From the distance, patches are visible in its once glorious copper dome. The building was used as a garage during World War II. When the Nazis left, they mined the place and it suffered much damage.
The mosaics and frescoes inside are by Giovanni Panti.
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