Sinagoga di Modena

Modena's synagogue was built in 1869–1873 within the former ghetto. Its monumental architecture marks the Jewish community's emancipation-era presence in the civic landscape, while the later opening of Piazza Mazzini changed its urban setting.

Why it matters

The building expresses a new public visibility after the restrictions of ghetto life. Its relationship with the surrounding streets and square is therefore part of its historical meaning, alongside the religious purposes of the synagogue itself.

What to notice

Twelve Corinthian columns surround the elliptical hall and support the women's gallery. A star-painted dome rises above the space. The tevah and aron kodesh are grouped at one end behind a balustrade, while the aron is framed by a serliana and illuminated from above. The paired facades show the building's original corner setting.

Context and history

The synagogue was designed by Ludovico Maglietta, with decoration attributed to Ferdinando Manzini. The creation of Piazza Mazzini in 1903–1906 exposed a frontage that had originally faced a more confined urban space. A smaller winter oratory associated with the Donati family preserves another layer of the community's religious history.