Synagogue of Anderlecht

In the vibrant municipality of Anderlecht, Brussels, stands a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Jewish community—the Synagogue of Anderlecht. Officially known as the Synagogue of the Orthodox Jewish Community of Brussels, this historic building, also referred to by its original name, the Israëlitische Orthodoxe Synagoge van Kuregem, is a cornerstone of Jewish heritage in the area. Located at 67A, rue de la Clinique/Kliniekstraat, this synagogue is not just a place of worship but a symbol of cultural and historical significance.

A Glimpse into History

The roots of the Synagogue of Anderlecht trace back to the early 20th century. Initially, an Orthodox synagogue existed on the outskirts of the Marolles/Marollen district, but as the Jewish community grew, so did the need for a larger place of worship. By 1922, plans for a new, more spacious synagogue were set in motion. The community acquired a 500 m² plot of land in Anderlecht in 1926, and construction began in 1928 under the guidance of Joseph de Lange, a Jewish architect from Antwerp.

The synagogue was inaugurated amidst the challenging economic and political climate of the time. Rabbi Joseph Serfaty described the congregation as a diverse mix of Ashkenazi Jews from Germany and Sephardic Jews from Poland, with the latter group praying in a smaller room upstairs.

Surviving the Holocaust

The Synagogue of Anderlecht, like many Jewish institutions in Europe, faced immense challenges during World War II. The Holocaust left an indelible mark on the community, with many members, including Rabbi Joseph Gelernter and his family, perishing in the atrocities. In memory of those lost, a commemorative stone was placed at the entrance of the synagogue. Post-war, Rabbi Isaac Steinberg took over and refurbished the interior, ensuring the synagogue remained a vital part of the community’s fabric.

Despite the hardships, the synagogue continued to serve its purpose. At one point, it housed the offices of the Orthodox Jewish Community of Brussels, the Kosher Supervisory Commission of Brussels, the Orthodox Rabbinate, the Bet Din, and the Beit Midrash, making it a central hub for Jewish life in Anderlecht.

Modern Challenges and Resilience

The turn of the 21st century brought new challenges. Security concerns and the migration of the Jewish population to other neighborhoods in Brussels led to a decline in regular attendance. By 2010, the synagogue was largely deserted, opening its doors primarily for major Jewish holidays. Chief Rabbi Albert Guigui noted the impact of these changes on the once-thriving community.

Unfortunately, the synagogue has also been a target of anti-Semitic incidents. In 2010, a Molotov cocktail was thrown at its entrance, and in 2014, an arson attack caused significant damage. Despite these setbacks, the community's resilience shone through. The perpetrator of the arson was sentenced to six years in prison in 2017, and efforts to enhance security, including the installation of surveillance cameras, were undertaken, although these too faced vandalism.

Architectural Splendor

The Synagogue of Anderlecht is not just a place of worship but also an architectural marvel. Its robust structure, characterized by tall, arched windows and intricate brickwork, reflects the architectural style of the late 1920s. The building stands as a beacon of the community’s enduring spirit and historical significance. The synagogue's imposing facade and the serene atmosphere inside offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Jewish community in Anderlecht.

Visiting the Synagogue

Today, visitors to the Synagogue of Anderlecht can appreciate not only its historical and cultural significance but also its architectural beauty. While regular services may be sparse, the synagogue opens its doors during major Jewish holidays, offering a chance for both locals and tourists to connect with the rich tapestry of Jewish history in Brussels. The synagogue is easily accessible via the Clemenceau metro station on lines 2 and 6 of the Brussels Metro, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city.

In conclusion, the Synagogue of Anderlecht stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Jewish community in Brussels. Its walls echo the stories of the past, from the early 20th-century influx of Jewish refugees to the tragic events of the Holocaust and the modern-day challenges of anti-Semitism. Visiting this historic synagogue is not just a journey through Jewish history but a profound reminder of the strength and perseverance of a community that continues to thrive against all odds.