615 N. Broad St., 215/627-6747
www.rodephshalom.org [1]
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–noon
COST: Free
The oldest Ashkenazic congregation in the Western Hemisphere, Rodeph Shalom was founded in 1795. The current structure was completed in 1928 and stands as one of the only synagogues in the country in the Byzantine-Moorish style, designed by Simon and Simon.
A large dome, starburst skylights, stained-glass windows, an ark supported on marble columns, and bronze-and-enamel doors are just a few of the architectural highlights.
The Broad Street Foyer houses the Leon J. and Julia S. Obermayer Collection of Jewish ritual art, containing more than 500 ceremonial objects dating to the 1700s. Call in advance to schedule a tour at this active congregation.
Links:
[1] http://www.rodephshalom.org