With capacity for 2,500 seated worshippers, it is one of the largest synagogues in the world.

In 1868, the congregation built the Moorish Revival synagogue at 43rd Street and Fifth Avenue, designed by Leopold Eidlitz.

[1][2] In 1929, the congregation moved to its present location at 65th Street and Fifth Avenue, where the Temple building was constructed to designs of Robert D. Kohn[a] on the former site of the Mrs. William B. Astor House.

The vast load-bearing masonry walls support the steel beams that carry its roof.

In the building there is a museum with a collection that includes more than 650 pieces that date from the 14th century to the present day, which can be separated into two main categories: History of Emanu-El and Judaica.