The Great Architect
Sarah Fitzpatrick checks out some of the best examples of religious architecture in the city.
Ohel Leah Synagogue
70 Robinson Rd., Mid-Levels
Built in 1901 and extensively restored in 1998, the Ohel Leah Synagogue has been the center of Jewish life in Hong Kong for over 100 years. Built in the Colonial Sephardic architectural style, the whitewashed building features several turrets and has two levels that originally separated men and women during religious services. It’s a Grade-I historical building.
Wing Kwong Pentecostal Holiness Church
22 Heng Lam St., Lok Fu
Built in 2000, the Wing Kwong Pentecostal Holiness Church was designed in a modern style and is home to one of Hong Kong’s largest religious congregations. Highlights include the stained glass skylight of the Podium Chapel as well as the auditorium’s tile wall, which at eight meters high is the tallest in Hong Kong and fills the worship space with light. Designed by celebrated local designer Tao Ho, it won the HKIA Annual Awards Certificate of Merit in 2000.
Jamia Masjid
30 Shelley St., Central
Built in 1915, this mosque is a Grade-I historical building that can be reached by hopping on the Mid-Levels escalator. The Mosque is built in a traditional Islamic style, with ornately decorated columns and a cylindrical dome.