VISIT TO BEVIS MARKS SYNAGOGUE with talk
Followed by lunch at Haz Turkish Restaurant
The last event planned by our Master David Ayres was to Bevis Marks Synagogue in February. The peaceful yet splendid interior, with its massive chandeliers carrying wax candles, was much admired while we listened to a truly interesting talk outlining the history of the Sephardic Community which lived within walking distance of Bevis Marks.
From small beginnings in 1656, this Community became large enough to commission this Synagogue which opened in 1701. The decoration and symbolism was influenced by the Synagogue in Amsterdam. A local architect with experience in religious buildings was carefully commissioned. The Synagogue is thus redolent of the non-conformist architecture of the period in its simplicity.
We learned of the leading families within the community, the Baron-Cohens and the Montefiores among them and their immense philanthropy to society in general.
Sadly since the foundation of this synagogue the community has gradually moved away. Services are nevertheless still maintained. This listed building is currently supported not only by its remaining community but also the City of London Corporation.
David Ayres
Master
