The Jewish presence in Sibiu probably dates back to the 15th century, when merchants worked with the city’s residents. However, it wasn’t until the middle of the 19th century that they were able to settle there on a permanent, unrestricted basis. Sibiu’s first synagogue was built in 1878, and a second twelve years later. The Shoah claimed many victims. Just over a hundred Jews lived in Sibiu in the following decades.

The Grand Synagogue of Sibiu has been declared a historical monument by the Romanian Academy. With its elegant interior and Renaissance facade enhanced by Gothic elements, it remains a popular tourist attraction. The city also has a Jewish cemetery .