Cape Town Hebrew Congregation

Cape Town Hebrew Congregation is situated on 88 Hatfield Street Gardens Cape 8001

The Cape Town Hebrew Congregation – Gardens Shul – is situated on the historic Company gardens and located a stone’s throw from the South African Parliament complex.

Founded in 1841 it is the first Jewish community in Sub-Saharan Africa. As the original Congregation, it was responsible and facilitated the establishment of many of the other Jewish communities in South Africa and is thus referred to as the ‘Mother Synagogue’ of South Africa.

The original Synagogue known as the Old Shul, was built in 1863 and currently serves as the entrance to the South African Jewish Museum. The Old Shul stands alongside the Great Synagogue built in 1905 and is active till this very day. With its twin towers, impressive dome, intricate mosaics, stain glassed windows and expansive Sanctuary the Great Synagogue radiates a rich sense of history and tradition. It is an architectural masterpiece and a source of great pride for the South African Jewish Community.