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An Architectural Jewel-Box: Rodef Shalom Congregation

Tour Dates:

Sunday, August 6, 2023

  • 10:00am - 10:45am

  • 11:30am - 12:15pm

  • 1:30pm - 2:15pm

  • 3:00pm - 3:45pm


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 BIO:

Martha Berg is the Archivist for Rodef Shalom Congregation and has done extensive research into its history. She has also worked as an archivist for the Rauh Jewish Archives at the Heinz History Center and for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Free parking available in the lot behind the building; enter from Morewood or Devonshire. 71B and 71D buses stop at Fifth and Morewood.

  • Photo ID is required.

  • Restrooms are available.

  • Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available.

  • Photography is allowed.

Insider Tour

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August 6

An Architectural Jewel-Box: Rodef Shalom Congregation

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Roots of Pittsburgh