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: Exhibition : Database : Reform Synagogues : Synagogues a.1945 : Berlin

The Architecture of Jewish Communities in Berlin (Synagogues, Prayer rooms, Mikvaot, Cemetery Buildings and Other Institutions)

The objective of this reearch project is the critical comparison of Jewish community institutions in Berlin in the context of the Jewish history in this town. The development of these buildings and institutions will be thoroughly researched. Not only the synagogues but also the buildings which were erected according to religious and ritual rules (prayer rooms, mikvaot, cemetery buildings and other institutions) are the main topic of these systematic investigations. The general view of the “Jewish topography“ of Berlin encompassing all the buildings and institutions built between 1671 and 1945 will be researched.

The description of the buildings will be based on different sources and will require the cooperation between the three institutions concerned (Fachgebiet Baugeschichte, Braunschweig; Centrum Judaicum Berlin; Center for Jewish Art, Jerusalem).

Measurements and photo-documentations of the actual state, historical architectural drawing and old photographs will be the basis for visual reconstructions of the buildings. Relevant sources in files and hopefully living witnesses can give an account of the shape and décor of the buildings. Furthermore, these reports provide an insight into the life of the Jewish communities in Berlin. Both the destruction of the Jewish communities and the exposure of the places and the buildings after the Second World War will be documented within this project.

The team hopes to be able to rely on the memories of living witnesses, to enable the scientists and users of the database to have insight into the life of the Jews in Berlin.

Bet Tfila is requesting the assistance of those who would like to share their memories regarding the buildings, their structural characteristics, modifications, their users and utilisation, abuse and destruction between 1933 and 1945. Memorabilia in private hands such as photographs and postcards showing the buildings and their residents would be helpful.

If you wish to provide us with information, please contact Katrin Keßler (Jerusalem) or N.N. (Braunschweig) from the Bet Tfila or Daniela Gauding from the Centrum Judaicum in Berlin.