Garnet Hill Jewel

May 22, 2008 on 1:39 pm | In General, Photography Websites |

Garnet Hill Synagogue is the first synagogue to be built in Glasgow, Scotland. It was dedicated on a cloudy day, September 9, 1879. At the time, Glasgow had a Jewish population of 700 people.

John McLeod, of Hope Street, Glasgow, was the architect. He left nothing to imagination, on the Romanesque-looking exterior of the synagogue, from its massive columns, to the ornate turrets and Byzantine-like expressiveness, the synagogue attracted worshipers and visitors from all over.

The opening of the Garnet Hill Synagogue was a major occasion, and cause for celebration, as the Jews previously worshipped in a rented room, in 1825, and then in a flat, before deciding to build what is now Garnet Hill Synagogue.

From the lovely scrollwork on the iron gate, one walks the path towards the steps. The rich wood of the front door is welcoming, and the Star of David is present above the door, illuminating to everyone in its quietude. Garnet Hill Synagogue stands proudly, on a cobble stoned street, reflecting past and present. and it has been a strong community force for over almost 130 years.

~~~~~~
© Copyright 2007 - All Rights Reserved - No permission is given or allowed to reuse my photography, book reviews, writings, or my poetry in any form/format without my expresss written consent/permission.