Learn about Victoria's early Jewish community as Congregation Emanu-El, Canada's oldest Jewish house of worship, opens for tours for the first time in years. Half-hour tours will run every Tuesday and Thursday until the end of the month in the Romanesque Revival building.
Most tours will be led by Shoshana Litman, Canada's first ordained Maggidah (female Jewish storyteller). Hear stories of Victoria's first Jewish residents and the unique synagogue they founded, one of the last standing brick buildings designed by prolific Scottish architect John Wright.
The synagogue is gearing up for its 150th anniversary celebrations in June 2013, when it will also feature museum-style displays and enhanced tours. Proceeds from tours benefit concerts and maintenance of the building.
The cost is $5 per person. The tours run at 11 a.m., noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Doors open 15 minutes before the hour.
Group tours at other times can be arranged with prior notice. The synagogue is at 1461 Blanshard St., at Pandora. For more information go to congregationemanu-el.ca.
