Synagogue of Trieste
The Synagogue of Trieste, also the Great Synagogue of Trieste, is an Orthodox Jewish congregation and synagogue, that is located at Via S. Francesco D'Assisi 19, Trieste, in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, in Northern Italy. Designed by Ruggero Berlam and Arduino Berlam in the Romanesque Revival style, the synagogue was completed in 1912.
History
It was built under Austrian rule, between 1908 and 1912, and bears the hallmark of architects Ruggero and Arduino Berlam. The synagogue was unveiled in 1912 in the presence of municipal officials, and it replaced the four smaller ones that previously existed, from mid 18th century, and which were based on an architectural model quite common in northeastern Italy, with rectangular rooms with rows of pews orientated towards the centre or the eastern side; inside, they were delicately decorated and furnished but showed a humble and anonymous aspect from the outside.The Great Temple was meant to satisfy the religious need of a growing Community that, in 1938, had almost 6,000 members. For its construction an international contest was organized, but it had no results. The synagogue was closed in 1942 following the instigation of the race laws under the Fascist regime. It was devastated by fascist squads and later, during the Nazi occupation, it was used as a storehouse for works of art and books seized from the Jewish houses. The ritual silvers of the community were preserved from the plunder thanks to a clever hiding place inside the very building. As soon as the war finished the synagogue went back into operation.
Today it is recognised as one of the largest and most important places of worship for Jews in Europe.
Architecture
Different architectural styles have successfully blended into this building, whose essence is represented by four powerful marble pillars supporting an imposing central dome.The style has been described as follows: