Shiloh Synagogue, Heritage synagogue in Shilo, Israel

Shiloh Synagogue is a place of worship in Shilo with a layout designed to reference the ancient Tabernacle structure. The interior divides prayer areas according to Orthodox traditions, featuring design elements that recall the dimensions and proportions described in biblical texts.

In 1979 Shilo resident Ira Rappaport initiated the synagogue, engaging architect Zalman Deutsch of Alon Shvut, later joined by Shimshon Zaltzman. The design recalls the Tabernacle that stood at Shiloh for 369 years, identified with ancient Shiloh west of the modern settlement. Limestone walls replace the desert Tabernacle's acacia wood and leather hangings.

The building's name, Zichron Mishkan Shiloh, means a memorial to the Tabernacle of Shiloh, and its forms carry that memory: the reading platform is modelled on the golden altar, the ark on the Ark of the Covenant with its carrying rings, and the stair to the women's section on the ramp of the copper altar. Votive windows on the wall facing Jerusalem show the symbols of the tribes of Israel.

The synagogue welcomes visitors through guided tours that explain the building's structure and its connection to biblical history. Plan your visit with awareness that this is an active place of worship with Orthodox customs you should respect, including dress codes and head coverings.

The ascent to the women's gallery copies the dimensions of the ramp of the copper altar, with four protruding corners marking its horns and a line at one cubit (about half a metre) marking the base. A second flight joins it at 90 degrees to reach the gallery level.