The Central Synagogue (Congregation Ahavath Chesed) is located at 652 Lexington Avenue on the corner of 55th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York. Built in 1872 in the Moorish Revival style as a copy of Budapest's Dohány Street Synagogue , it pays homage to the Jewish existence in Moorish Spain . It has been in continuous use by a congregation longer than any other in the city.
The dramatic style of the building was the subject of much deba...
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The Central Synagogue (Congregation Ahavath Chesed) is located at 652 Lexington Avenue on the corner of 55th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York. Built in 1872 in the Moorish Revival style as a copy of Budapest's Dohány Street Synagogue , it pays homage to the Jewish existence in Moorish Spain . It has been in continuous use by a congregation longer than any other in the city.
The dramatic style of the building was the subject of much debate during the construction. Some felt its excess would inspire envy and stand in the way of assimilation.
It is among the oldest synagogue buildings still standing in the United States. It was designated a National Historic Landmark on May 15, 1975. It has been restored recently in the original style after a fire in August 1998. It is open to the public for tours on a weekly schedule.
The synagogue owns the notable Salem Fields Cemetery, Brooklyn.
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