A synagogue that made history in its own backyard

In 1850, the Jewish community of Endingen numbered around 1000 members – larger than the village’s Christian population. Even so, the synagogue, newly built from 1850 to 1852, was tucked away in a quiet alley, where the original synagogue, built in 1764, had stood. The synagogue was restored in 1986 and again from 1997 to 1998. It has been a registered protected building since 1963. 

Eastern roots

Whoever stands in front of the synagogue will recognise the calling card of Caspar Joseph Jeuch, the architect from Baden: a streamlined, classical façade, punctuated by striking horseshoe-arched windows that are reminiscent of Judaism’s eastern roots. The interior’s artistic paintwork, by Heinrich Wettstein, a decorative painter, complements the eastern-influence architectural elements.

A sense of timing

Like its sister synagogue in Lengnau, the Endingen synagogue has a clock. This is rare among synagogues, but as there was no church in the village, the Jewish building assumed the task of marking the pace of village life.

Space planning with meaning

A special feature of the synagogue is its surrounding gallery, which was skilfully embedded into the architectural design. It surrounds three sides and is enclosed by an elaborate parapet. This area was once reserved for women and children. While the men prayed in the lower area, the women followed services from above.