Pethő House

Zala

55/10060 min

Pethő House, located at Kossuth Lajos Street #22 in Keszthely, Zala County, Hungary, is the town's oldest building and an important historical landmark. It serves as the entrance to the Keszthely Synagogue, a Neolog Jewish congregation site originally built in 1852. The house and surrounding land were historically owned by the noble Pethő family since 1427 by royal donation, later passing to the Festetics family in 1739. The house is notably the birthplace of composer Károly Goldmark in 1830, whose father was the synagogue's cantor. Architecturally, the synagogue features a neo-classical style with later eclectic modifications and includes a women's gallery supported by iron columns. The synagogue and Pethő House together bear witness to the Jewish community's long history in Keszthely, including the tragic losses during World War II when many congregation members were murdered and the synagogue was repurposed by German forces. Today, the site includes memorials honoring the victims and preserves the cultural memory of the Jewish population in the region.

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Astuce: Visitors should consider visiting during warmer months for comfortable exploration of Keszthely's historic center. It is advisable to check opening hours ahead and inquire about guided tours to fully appreciate the site's cultural and historical significance. Advance ticket purchase or reservations may enhance the experience, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Access to the synagogue is through the archway of Pethő House on Kossuth Lajos Street.

Faits intéressants

  • Pethő House is the oldest building in Keszthely, dating back to the 15th century.
  • Composer Károly Goldmark was born in Pethő House in 1830; his father served as cantor at the synagogue.
  • The synagogue's organ, built in 1898 by Sándor Országh, was destroyed during World War II.
  • The synagogue was reconsecrated in 1995 after extensive renovations.
  • Names of 829 members of the Keszthely Jewish congregation murdered during the Holocaust are inscribed on 102 marble plaques inside the synagogue.

Histoire

1427

The Pethő House dates back to the early 15th century, with royal ownership granted to the Pethő family in 1427.

1739

The property was acquired by the Festetics family in 1739.

1852

The Jewish congregation in Keszthely was established by the mid-18th century, with a synagogue first built on the site in the late 18th century and replaced by the current building in 1852.

1894

Over time, the synagogue underwent several renovations, notably in 1894 and during the 20th century.

The site suffered damage and repurposing during World War II, with significant loss to the Jewish community.

1995

Post-war restoration efforts culminated in a full renovation and reconsecration in 1995.

Guide du lieu

1
Archway of Pethő House15th century

The entrance to the Keszthely Synagogue is through this historic archway located on Kossuth Lajos Street #22, part of the Pethő House complex, symbolizing the link between the town's noble heritage and Jewish history.

2
Keszthely Synagogue Interior1852 (original construction), 1894 (remodel)
Christopher Hofstadter (original architect)

The synagogue interior preserves neo-classical architectural elements with an eclectic style remodel from 1894. It features a women's gallery supported by iron columns and memorial plaques honoring Holocaust victims.

3
Memorial ObeliskPost-World War II

Located in front of the synagogue, this black obelisk commemorates the Jewish ghetto that once existed on the site and honors those deported during the Holocaust.