Jewish Synagogue
Jewish Synagogue
Introduced in Civ4
Cost[1]300 Hammer
Special Abilities
  • +50% Culture
  • +2 Happiness if Judaism is State Religion
  • Can turn 2 Citizens into Priest
  • +1 Happiness from Incense
  • Double Production Speed with Stone
Requires Jewish Temple (2[2] Total)[3]




Traditionally, the term "synagogue" is used to describe all Jewish houses of worship. For purposes of game clarity, Civilization IV uses the term to describe only the larger and more imposing structures; smaller religious structures are called "Jewish temples".

A Jewish synagogue is a place both of worship and of study. Worship and prayer take place in the main room. The prayer may be led by a "rabbi" (teacher), but it is not necessary, and many synagogues do not have a rabbi in attendance. Many of the most beautiful synagogues in the world are found in Eastern Europe. Unfortunately, many of the local worshipers were killed during the Holocaust, and most survivors fled to Israel, leaving these holy buildings sadly unattended."


"The Jewish Synagogue (Jewish Cathedral) greatly increases a city's cultural output. It makes a city's citizens happy (if Judaism is the state religion)."


In the city screen press the following icon to start Jewish Synagogue construction:

Game versionButton
AllIcoJewish Synagogue

See also


  1. Cost depends on Game Speed. Quick: 200 Hammer, Epic: 450 Hammer, Marathon: 900 Hammer.
  2. The number depends on Map Size. It requires 2 on Duel, Tiny and Small, 3 on Standard and Large, and 4 on Huge.