Reicher Synagogue in Łódź

The Reicher Synagogue in Łódź, located at 28 Rewolucji 1905 Street, is the only preserved pre-war synagogue and one of the two active synagogues in the city. Built between 1895 and 1902 with funds provided by the Reicher family and designed by Gustaw Landau-Gutenteger, it features distinctive architecture with a rectangular brick building. The main prayer hall is surrounded by women's galleries, and its interior includes decorative elements such as an Aron ha-kodesh with a blue canopy and paintings with geometric motifs. The synagogue survived World War II thanks to a fictitious sale deed and was renovated after the war by various foundations. Despite challenges, such as its closure following the events of March 1968 and vandalism attempts in the 1990s, the synagogue has become an important place of worship for the local Jewish community. There are ongoing plans to relocate it to a plot owned by the Jewish community, but these efforts face difficulties due to the building's poor condition and financial constraints. Interestingly, in 1998, on the occasion of the Czech president's visit, the synagogue was repainted but immediately fell victim to acts of vandalism. The synagogue plays a significant cultural role, hosting religious ceremonies, including Shabbat services with rabbis from all over Poland. It serves as a memorial site that preserves the history and traditions of Jews in Łódź and features plaques commemorating individuals associated with its history. Inside, there are also valuable liturgical objects from the 16th and 18th centuries, reflecting a rich religious tradition.