Hobart Synagogue
Australia's oldest operating synagogue, a stunning example of Egyptian Revival architecture with a rich colonial history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Tours offer the best insights
Hobart Synagogue
Best Time
Tours offer the best insights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Australia's oldest operating synagogue, a stunning example of Egyptian Revival architecture with a rich colonial history.
"A poignantly beautiful place with a fascinating history, highly recommended for all."
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Visits are by guided tour only. Book in advance to guarantee your spot and experience the full history.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The Egyptian Revival style is a standout feature. Don't miss the unique details inside and out.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Egyptian Revival Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the unique neo-Egyptian style, a rare architectural gem in Australia, consecrated in 1845.
Convict Seating
Sanctuary
See the original benches at the back of the sanctuary, once used to seat convicts.
1860s Ladies Gallery Carpet
Ladies Gallery
Marvel at the remarkably preserved carpet in the Ladies Gallery, dating back to the 1860s.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand Its Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Visits are by guided tour only. Book in advance to guarantee your spot and experience the full history.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The Egyptian Revival style is a standout feature. Don't miss the unique details inside and out.
⏳ Step Back in Time
The synagogue preserves elements like convict seating, offering a tangible link to the past.
✨ See the Historic Carpet
The Ladies Gallery carpet from the 1860s is a surprisingly well-preserved and glowing detail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Visits are by guided tour only. Book in advance to guarantee your spot and experience the full history.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The Egyptian Revival style is a standout feature. Don't miss the unique details inside and out.
⏳ Step Back in Time
The synagogue preserves elements like convict seating, offering a tangible link to the past.
✨ See the Historic Carpet
The Ladies Gallery carpet from the 1860s is a surprisingly well-preserved and glowing detail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hobart Synagogue for its fascinating history and the exceptional quality of its guided tours. Many highlight the informative and engaging nature of the guides, who bring the stories of the building and its community to life. The unique Egyptian Revival architecture and preserved historical elements, such as convict seating, are frequently mentioned as memorable aspects of the visit.
"Thank you Doug for a fascinating tour of the poignantly beautiful HOBART SYNAGOGUE.
You are a nonpareil tour guide bringing alive Jewish history and Tasmanian and Australian heritage.
To those of the Jewish faith, any faith and no faith I joyfully recommend this heartwarming tour."
Marsha Myers
"The oldest synagogue in Australia and the southern hemisphere still operating. Built in Egyptian Revival style, it opened in 1845 and reached its peak congregation soon after with numbers declining when men moved to Victoria following the discovery of gold in 1851."
Tony Haigh
"What an amazing place. The tour was wonderful and informative and we all learned so much about the first fleet as well as the history of the building and its community."
olivia casson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hobart Synagogue is located in the heart of Hobart, Tasmania. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other central Hobart attractions. Parking may be limited in the immediate vicinity, so consider public transport or walking if possible.
Yes, the synagogue is centrally located in Hobart, making it easy to combine with visits to other historical sites and attractions in the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Visits are by guided tour only, and it's highly recommended to book your tour in advance to ensure availability and confirm opening times.
Opening hours are typically tied to guided tour schedules. It's essential to check the official website or contact them directly to confirm tour times and book your visit.
Information on ticket prices is usually available when booking your guided tour. It's best to check their official booking platform for the most current pricing.
No, visits to the Hobart Synagogue are exclusively through guided tours. This ensures visitors receive a comprehensive and informative experience of its history and significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Guided tours typically last about an hour, providing a detailed overview of the synagogue's history, architecture, and community.
Expect to learn about Jewish history in Tasmania, admire the unique Egyptian Revival architecture, see original convict seating, and view the historic Ladies Gallery carpet. 
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with mobility issues should be confirmed directly with the synagogue when booking your tour.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask your tour guide for clarification on whether photos are permitted inside the synagogue.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its distinctive Egyptian Revival facade, is a great photo opportunity. Inside, the unique architectural details and historical elements like the convict seating and Ladies Gallery carpet offer compelling shots, but always check photo policies first.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and property owner permissions. It's advisable to check with aviation authorities and the synagogue administration before attempting any drone photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment. Discuss the concept of historical buildings and different places of worship before your visit to set expectations. The synagogue's central location makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Hobart.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Highlights for history buffs: Pay close attention to the convict seating, the original fabric of the building, and the remarkably preserved 1860s carpet in the Ladies Gallery. The tour guide's detailed accounts are often praised for bringing the past to life, making it an incredibly rewarding experience for anyone interested in Australian heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Hobart Synagogue's History
During guided tours, visitors often learn about the fascinating social history embedded within the building. A particularly poignant feature is the convict seating located at the back of the sanctuary. These original benches serve as a stark reminder of the colony's penal past and the diverse individuals who worshipped there. The Ladies Gallery, with its carpet dating back to the 1860s, also offers a glimpse into the synagogue's enduring legacy and the preservation efforts undertaken over the decades.
Experiencing the Hobart Synagogue is more than just a historical tour; it's an opportunity to connect with a vital part of Australia's multicultural heritage. The detailed narratives shared by guides bring the stories of the past to life, making it a heartwarming and memorable visit for people of all faiths and backgrounds. Booking a tour is essential to fully appreciate the depth of history contained within these walls.
Architectural Marvel: The Egyptian Revival Style
Inside, the architectural influence continues, contributing to a distinct atmosphere. The synagogue's design reflects not only religious needs but also the aspirations and cultural influences of its congregants. The preservation of its original features, such as the seating arrangements and decorative elements, allows visitors to appreciate the historical integrity of the building. The Ladies Gallery, for instance, showcases a carpet that has endured for over a century and a half, a testament to the quality of craftsmanship and the care taken in maintaining the site.
For those interested in architecture, the Hobart Synagogue offers a rare opportunity to study a well-preserved example of Egyptian Revival style in a religious context. Its historical importance is amplified by its architectural uniqueness, making it a must-see for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The synagogue's ability to transport visitors back in time through its design and preserved elements is a key part of its appeal.
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