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Synagogue de Lille

Lille

The Synagogue de Lille is a synagogue in Lille, a city in northern France, inaugurated in 1891. Located at 5 Rue Auguste-Angellier, it has been a protected historical monument since 1984. The building was erected in a newly created district in the second half of the 19th century, an area that also includes the Catholic Church Saint-Michel, the university, and the Protestant Church. During the German occupation in World War II, the synagogue building was misused as a camp.

Designed from plans by architect Albert Hannotin, the synagogue was built in an Orientalist style. Its prayer hall measures 17 meters long and 7.6 meters wide. The street-facing facade includes a central risalit with a large leaded glass window, whose upper round section displays a Star of David. The gable is decorated with a frieze, flanked by acroteria on both sides, and its peak is topped by the tablets of the law. The synagogue is also noted as one of the few in France to have preserved its original interior decoration through World War II.

Map showing the location of Synagogue de Lille in Lille
Location of Synagogue de Lille in Lille

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History and Protection

The synagogue in Lille, a city in northern France, was inaugurated in 1891. It is located at 5 Rue Auguste-Angellier and has been protected as a historical monument since 1984. This status indicates its recognized heritage value within the city.

History and Urban Setting

The Synagogue de Lille was built in a newly created district in the second half of the 19th century. The area also includes the Catholic Church Saint-Michel, the university, and the Protestant Church, placing the synagogue within a mixed urban and religious setting. During the German occupation in World War II, the synagogue building was misused as a camp, adding a significant chapter to its history.

Architecture and Interior of the Synagogue

The Synagogue de Lille was designed by Architektur based on plans by architect Albert Hannotin in an Orientalist style. Its prayer hall measures 17 meters long and 7.6 meters wide. The street-facing facade has a central risalit with a large leaded glass window, whose upper round section displays a Star of David. The gable is decorated with a frieze and flanked by acroteria on both sides, and the gable peak is topped by the tablets of the law. The synagogue is also notable for preserving its original interior decoration through World War II, making it one of the few synagogues in France to retain this feature.