Hobart Synagogue

The Hobart Synagogue is Australia's oldest synagogue building, located at 59 Argyle Street in central Hobart, Tasmania. Consecrated in 1845, it is a rare example of Egyptian Revival architecture in Australia, designed by convict architect James Thomson. Operated by the Hobart Hebrew Congregation, the heritage-listed building remains an active Orthodox synagogue and a significant landmark reflecting Tasmania's early colonial and Jewish history.

Visitors can expect a small, heritage-listed synagogue in Hobart's city centre featuring distinctive Egyptian Revival facade with lotus columns and pyramid motifs. Inside, the intimate sanctuary contains original cedar pews, a central bimah and historic Ark. The site is an active place of worship visited by guided tour only, offering insight into colonial architecture and the history of the Jewish community in Tasmania. Exterior viewing is possible from Argyle Street.

Built between 1843 and 1845 for the Hobart Hebrew Congregation, the Hobart Synagogue is the oldest synagogue building in Australia. Designed by former convict architect James Thomson in Egyptian Revival style, it was consecrated on 4 July 1845. It reflects the early Jewish settlement in Van Diemen's Land, including convict and free settler members, and is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register as a rare colonial religious building.

The synagogue remains the spiritual centre for Tasmania's Jewish community and an active Orthodox congregation. It represents continuity of Jewish worship in Australia since the colonial period and is valued as a cultural and architectural landmark demonstrating early multicultural heritage in Hobart.