10 Things to Do in The Great Synagogue (Sinagoga Mare) Iași Romania
The Great Synagogue (Sinagoga Mare) in Iași, Romania is one of the most impressive and historic places of worship in the world. Built in the late 19th century, the synagogue is a stunning example of traditional Jewish architecture and remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Here are 10 things you can do when visiting this impressive building.
1. Take a Tour: The Great Synagogue offers guided tours of the building, which are a great way to learn about its history and architecture. The tour will take you through the main hall, the prayer hall, the women's gallery, and the courtyard. You'll also get to see the impressive stained glass windows and the beautiful woodwork that decorates the interior.
2. Attend a Service: The Great Synagogue is still an active place of worship and services are held several times a week. If you're in town on a Saturday, you can join the congregation for Shabbat services.
3. Explore the Museum: The Great Synagogue also houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Jewish community in Iași. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Holocaust, photographs, and documents.
4. Visit the Jewish Cemetery: Just a few blocks from the synagogue is the Jewish Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many of Iași's Jewish community. The cemetery is open to visitors and is a poignant reminder of the city's past.
5. Shop at the Judaica Store: The Great Synagogue also has a Judaica store, where you can purchase Jewish books, music, and art. The store also sells traditional Jewish clothing, such as kippot and tallitot.
6. Enjoy a Concert: The Great Synagogue regularly hosts concerts, featuring traditional Jewish music as well as contemporary music. The concerts are open to the public and are a great way to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the synagogue.
7. Attend a Lecture: The synagogue is also home to a variety of lectures and seminars, which are open to the public. Lectures cover a variety of topics, from Jewish history to current events.
8. Take a Cooking Class: The synagogue also offers cooking classes, which are open to all. The classes focus on traditional Jewish dishes and offer a great way to learn more about Jewish cuisine.
9. Visit the Library: The synagogue has an extensive library, which includes a variety of books on Jewish history, culture, and religion. The library is open to visitors and is a great place to learn more about the Jewish faith.
10. Enjoy a Meal: The Great Synagogue also has a cafe, which serves traditional Jewish dishes. The cafe is open to all and is a great way to experience the flavors of Jewish cuisine.
The Great Synagogue is a stunning example of traditional Jewish architecture and a great place to explore the history and culture of the Jewish community in Iași. Whether you're visiting for a tour, a service, or a meal, you're sure to find something to enjoy at the Great Synagogue.