Twelve synagogues in Tripolitania — most of them located in the interior — have been closed down as a result of the large-scale movement of Tripolitanian Jews to Israel, it was reported here today. Among the synagogues that have been closed is the ancient house of worship located at Jefran, in Libya, which was constructed in 1300.
The shut-down synagogues have been turned over to government authorities and in most instances are now being used as public schools. All religious articles, including Scrolls of the Law, were removed from the synagogues by the Israel-bound immigrants. A total of 26 smaller synagogues are still in use in Tripoli.
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