The Tempel Synagogue (Progressive Synagogue) was built between 1860 and 1862, and it was designed by Ignaccy Herck on the initiative of the Progressive Israelite Association and the Religious and Civil Society. The rebuilding of the synagogue took precisely 17 years. The synagogue was attended exclusively by Reform Jews inclined towards cultural and social assimilation into the Polish nation. 

In 1868, the synagogue was extended by Teofil Lamyrski, and in 1883, it was extended again by J. Ertel. The general reconstruction and redesign of the façade and interior was carried out between 1893 and 1894 by Beniamin Torbe in collaboration with Fabian Hochstim, who assisted him with the stonework. A vestibule and new façade were then added to the west, and a three-sided apse and porches were added to the east. It was built in the Moorish style. The last reconstruction of the synagogue took place in 1924. One-storey side aisles were added to the south and north elevations, and porches with stairs were converted to the east. On the occasion of the first operation, openings in the existing walls were re-cut, creating arcade-like openings. 

The interior of the monumental edifice is decorated with gold, Renaissance and Moorish designs. The Torah ark, carved in white marble and filled with stained glass, adds a splendour not found in Orthodox synagogues. Restored after wartime damage, it now has a worship function, but services are held only occasionally. It is also open to the public.