An Architectural Jewel-Box: Rodef Shalom Congregation

4905 Fifth Avenue,Pittsburgh PA 15213

21 August, 2022

Description

About this event Visit Rodef Shalom for an introduction to the oldest and largest Reform Jewish congregation in Western PA. Learn about its founders, who settled in Pittsburgh in the late 1840s. Tour its majestic sanctuary, designed by Henry Hornbostel, and in use since 1907. Get a good look at magnificent stained glass windows by the Willet Studio and Hermann Schladermundt. Learn how later building additions reflected the expanding activities of the congregation. After the official tour, visit the adjacent Biblical Botanical Garden, a restful oasis designed as a replica of ancient Israel and featuring plants mentioned in the Bible or with Biblical names. TOUR HOST Rodef Shalom had its beginnings in the 1840s, when Jews first settled permanently in Pittsburgh. The first synagogue building in Western PA was erected downtown in 1862. Rodef Shalom's second building, also downtown, was built in 1901. Henry Hornbostel was the architect for the current Rodef Shalom building, completed in 1907. Rodef Shalom was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and was named a City of Pittsburgh Historic Landmark in 2022. The Biblical Botanical Garden, one of only a few in the nation, was opened in 1987. TOUR STARTS/ENDS: 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh Photo ID is required for entry.Photography is allowed.Public restroom is available.REFUND POLICY: NO REFUNDS. All sales are final and non-refundable. All DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh events will be held RAIN OR SHINE unless otherwise stated. For circumstances where inclement weather is forecasted, we recommend appropriate precautions such as bringing an umbrella, coat, etc. This tour is brought to you in part by The Fine Foundation.