History of Middle Street Synagogue

This exquisitely sumptuous, Grade II* listed building is a sacred jewel, said to be Brighton’s second most important interior after the Royal Pavilion and among the most beautiful synagogues in Europe. Prepare to be delighted and uplifted.

Opened in 1875 and designed by local architect Thomas Lainson, it is one of the last remaining “cathedral· synagogues” from the Golden Age of High Victorian synagogue architecture, built in the period following formal political emancipation of the Jews in 1858.

The low-key exterior has been described as both Byzantine and Italian Romanesque however walking in through the doors of the synagogue, visitors are transported back in time to a bygone age of elegance and gently uplifted. Suffused by the golden light from the stained-glass windows, it is an oasis of calm and tranquillity in the centre of the city.

“Nothing prepares the visitor for the sumptuousness of Middle Street’s interior. It is basilican in plan and a riot of marble, brass, mosaic, stenciling, gilding and stained glass, much of it donated by the Sassoon family, the synagogue’s chief patrons.”

Dr. Sharman Kadish

According to Dr. Sharman Kadish of Jewish Heritage UK, “Nothing prepares the visitor for the sumptuousness of Middle Street’s interior. It is basilican in plan and a riot of marble, brass, mosaic, stenciling, gilding and stained glass, much of it donated by the Sassoon family, the synagogue’s chief patrons.” In celebration of the contributions made by the Baghdadi Sassoon family to the synagogue, there’s a brand new temporary exhibition ‘Jews of the Middle East at Middle Street.

Private tours with a local historian and educational tours for school parties can be booked. Click here to find out about our heritage days and events.