The Cape Town Hebrew Congregation was founded in 1841 making it the oldest Congregation in South Africa and one of the oldest in the Southern hemisphere. It is regarded as the Mother Synagogue of South Africa and is a centre for community events and celebrations. The current Synagogue building, the 'Great Synagogue', is affectionately called the 'Gardens Shul' as it is situated within the Company Gardens just down Government Avenue and a short walk from Parliament. It is a historic landmark for both the Jewish and wider South African communities. The Synagogue building, visited by thousands of tourists annually, is an architectural masterpiece both inside and out and is widely regarded as one of the most magnificent Synagogues in the world.