Considered by many to be the “jewel of Antwerp” the Hollandse Synagogue was given its name because it was built by the descendants of Jews who came to Antwerp from Holland in the early 19th century. <br><br>The Hollandse was designed by Jewish architect Joseph Hertogs (1861-1930). The Hollandse Synagogue suffered substantial damage during World War II but has been completely restored. Comparison of pre-War photos with present day show there has been little change in the building’s majestic appearance. Nowadays the synagogue is used for services only on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. Although the services are of Orthodox ritual, there is a pipe organ in the balcony.