Park East Synagogue
Established: 1888
Park East Synagogue, also known as Congregation Zichron, was organized in 1888 as an alternative to the Reform Judaism that dominated the Upper East Side. By adopting the English language into its Orthodox services and emphasizing religious involvement of its youth, the temple also helped define American Judaism. Designated a landmark in 1980, Park East Synagogue is a beautiful combination of Moorish and Byzantine style, both relics of the search for an appropriate Jewish architectural expression. A notable detail of the temple is the asymmetry of the twin towers, an uncommon site.