The Belz Hasidim will erect what they said will be the world’s largest synagogue on 1.75 acres of land in Jerusalem. It will be built at a cost of $12 million, and when completed some time in 1987, will accomodate up to 4,500 worshippers.
Cornerstone-laying ceremonies will be held next Sunday. It is expected to be attended by most of the 10,000 Belz Hasidic families living in Israel and 8,000 others who will be flown here for the occasion on 27 special flights by El Al.
The architect, Yizhak Blatt, who designed the edifice, said it would be a close replica of the Belz synagogue in Galicia which stood on a hilltop from 1843 until it was destroyed during the Holocaust 100 years later.
Belz Hasidim who survived the Holocaust re-established their movement’s center in Jerusalem where they are building a residential and education complex to be known as Kiryat Belz. The new synagogue will be its centerpiece.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
