Synagogue Selm-Bork

Synagogue Selm-Bork

The Synagogue Selm-Bork is one of two remaining rural synagogues in Westphalia, and a witness of pre-holocaust Jewish life in Westphalia. The exact year of construction is unknown, the first written reference was found in a directory of houses, written in 1818.[1]

Until Kristallnacht of 1938, the synagogue was used for prayer. During the pogrom the building was looted and partially destroyed. The Jewish community was forced to sell the building. A coal dealer acquired the building and used it as a barn.

In 1991 the synagogue was restored and opened for the public in 1994, the government declared the synagogue a historic monument.[2]

Today it is used by Etz Ami, a liberal Jewish community.

References

  1. Elfi Pracht-Jörns: Jüdisches Kulturerbe in Nordrhein-Westfalen. Band V: Regierungsbezirk Arnsberg. J.P.Bachem Verlag. Cologne 2002

External links

Coordinates: 51°39′55″N 7°28′02″E / 51.6653°N 7.4672°E