We will start our tour with a visit to the Chessed El Synagogue built by Sir Menasseh Meyer as his private synagogue in 1905, get the chance to see the old Torah Scrolls brought to Singapore from Baghdad by the fathers of the Jewish community back in 1840, and speak with the local Rabbi. We’ll walk to the area where the old Jewish neighbourhood known as “Mahala” used to be and view the David Elias building built in 1928 as well as the Isaac Ellison building built in 1924. Participants will learn about the prominent residents who used to live there such as Jacob Ballas and David Marshall.
Our last stop will be at the Maghain Avot Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in South East Asia, built in 1878. We’ll visit the Jews of Singapore Museum and learn about the history of the Jewish community in the Lion City and their traditions. This tour will end with a visit to the kosher shop selling spices, falafel mix, tahini and pickles imported from Israel.
Your guide is an active member of the Jewish community, born and raised in Jerusalem to a Baghdadi father.
Date: Thursday, 28 November
Time : 9:30am – 12:30pm
Meet point: 9:15am, outside Sumerset MRT, Exit A.
Cost: $55 ANZA Member, $65 Non – Member
EXERTION: Medium: Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
- You will need to wear respectful clothing for this tour – please cover your shoulders and do not wear shorts.
- All participants will need to bring their photo ID with them on the day
