We found three former Synagogues in the town of Sopron: the hidden one, the unrecognizable one, and the blocked one.
The first one is the “Old Synagogue”. It is said to be a remnant of the first Jewish community in Sopron, that was driven out in 1526. It is built into a back yard and you have only a very slim view from the street, Új utca 22-24.
Nowadays it is a museum that was closed of course on August 20th, which is a Hungarian national holiday.
The second one is right across the street one might find the “New Synagogue” which is even more inconspicuous.
And finally, there is the really new Synagogue, outside the Old City. Contrary to expectations, this was also an Orthodox Synagogue. Apparently, Sopron Jews had little interest in Neolog ways. Perhaps the influence of the Sheva Kehillot in what is now Austria’s province of Burgenland, that were fiercely Orthodox prevented Neologism to gain a foothold in Sopron?
This building stands apart from the neighboring houses. It must have been quite magnificent. However, the windows and doors have been completely blocked with bricks. The roof appears in good condition. It is said that the city of Sopron bought the premises in 2005 and is planning to transform it into an exhibition hall for modern art.
If this is indeed the plan then it will most probably take another twenty years to carry out; for who has ever heard of a small city’s magistrate to be in a hurry about making space for contemporary artists?
