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Synagogue Shalom Lebar (Rue de Dijon), Algiers, Algeria
Shalom Lebar, founded in 1894, was primarily used for weddings and marriages. For this reason, it was considered the most beautiful place of worship in Algiers.
Description
History of Shalom Lebar: In 1891 Chaloum Lebhar gave a 180 square meter plot of land to the consistory of Algiers. Located in the Bal-el-Oued municipality of Algiers on rue de Dijon, the land was to be the site of a new synagogue. In exchange for the cession of his land, Lebhar’s name was inscribed on the facade as well as inside the temple1. He received additional commendation through the institution of certain prayers which honored him and his family2.
Description of the Synagogue: With a capacity of up to 500 people, Shalom Lebar was a site for grand celebrations. Inside, the synagogue was decorated with a beautiful red hanging that covered the tabernacle, with old ceramics on each side. To further enhance the beauty of the hanging, lights were placed around the altar to make the glass inlays shine. At the very back of the synagogue was a gallery that housed the harmonium used for ceremonies. During weddings, the gallery would be filled with choirboys who performed wedding songs.
Algiers, Algeria
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Sources
Notes
1 Assan
2 Assan
Works Cited
1. Assan, Valérie. « Les synagogues dans l'Algérie coloniale du XIXe siècle », Archives Juives, vol. 37, no. 1, 2004, pp. 70-85.
2. “Synagogues D'algerie.” Synagogues D'Algerie, 17 Apr. 2014, https://www.judaicalgeria.com/pages/patrimoine-historique/synagogues-d-algerie.html.