A Madison lakefront park holds an important landmark building that’s been part of the city since its earliest days. The Gates of Heaven Synagogue is a treasure that’s a must-visit when you’re in Madison. It’s as gorgeous as it is historic and it has an interesting history that’s worth discovering. Here’s what you need to know about Gates of Heaven Synagogue in Madison, Wisconsin:

The Gates of Heaven story begins way back in 1856. Jewish immigrants from Germany founded the Shaarei Shamayim congregation, and in 1863, they built a synagogue on the 200th block of West Washington Avenue, just off Capitol Square.
Google / Yuji Yen
The synagogue was designed by August Kutzbock, a German immigrant. He designed it in the Rundbogenstil style, a nineteenth-century German form of Romanesque revival. He also designed buildings in the nearby Mansion Hill District of Madison.
Google / Marty Henderson
Due to financial reasons, the building was leased to a Unitarian congregation in 1873, and in later years it had many uses: it housed the Women's Christian Temperance Union, a funeral home, various churches, and a government warehouse.
Google / Marty Henderson

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The well-built building never lost its beauty, and in 1970 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Local citizens launched an effort to preserve the historic building.
Google / Corey Coyle
In 1971, the City of Madison purchased and restored the building and moved it to James Madison Park on the other side of the square. It’s one of the city’s most popular parks.
Google / Russel Zillgitt
The synagogue has the distinction of being the eighth oldest still standing in the United States. It’s used for a variety of events, including weddings and special celebrations, and it’s a beautiful presence along Madison’s lakefront.
Google / Jay Anderson

This historic synagogue truly is one of the most stunning places in Wisconsin, and it’s a must-visit when you’re in Madison.

It’s possible to reserve the Gates of Heaven for special uses – information is on the city’s website. If you enjoy discovering Wisconsin’s history, here are 12 more landmarks worth seeking out.

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Featured Addresses
Gates of Heaven, 302 E Gorham St, Madison, WI 53706, USA