B'nai Sholom Temple, Moorish Revival synagogue in Quincy, Illinois, US
B'nai Sholom Temple is a synagogue featuring Moorish Revival architecture in Quincy, Illinois, marked by horseshoe arch windows and fine tilework on the exterior. The interior spaces display ornamental patterns and details that reflect Islamic architectural heritage.
The synagogue was founded in 1869 and opened for a Reform Jewish congregation in 1870. The building served its community through worship until it closed in 2019.
The building shows how Jewish communities in the 1800s selected architectural forms to express their connection to Mediterranean regions. This style choice reflects how they used design to communicate their identity to the wider community.
The temple is located in downtown Quincy and is easy to spot from the street. Since the building is no longer operating as an active place of worship, it is wise to check ahead before visiting.
The building was originally equipped with two minaret-style towers that rose above 80 feet and defined the skyline. A tornado in 1947 destroyed these distinctive structures and permanently altered the temple's appearance.
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