One Of The Oldest Synagogues In America Is Right Here In South Carolina And It’s Positively Stunning
For many, the foundations upon which we live are derived from our faith. South Carolina, known for being in the heart of the Bible belt, has countless sanctuaries in which to worship. One city in particular is actually nicknamed ‘The Holy City’ because there are so many places to practice faith within the city.
Many people may not realize that Charleston is home to the second oldest synagogue building in the U.S. In addition, it's also the oldest synagogue building in continuous use in America.
Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim, located at 90 Hasell Street in historic Charleston, was constructed in 1840, but the congregation began nearly a hundred years earlier in 1749. The building was designed with an entrance to favor a Greek temple, with six massive portico columns.
Beautiful light flows in through nearly floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows that flank either side of the bimah and continue on either wall alongside the pews. The artistry in the windows is absolutely stunning.
The Bimah is on the center of the East wall, with four Corinthian columns on a raised platform. Aside from Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim having the distinction as the longest continuous operating Jewish Synagogue in the nation, the congregation here is the fourth oldest in the US.
Want to take a tour? Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim offers walk-in tours Monday through Friday at 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., and on Sundays at 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. Tour prices are $10 for those 18 and older. Those under 18 as well as college students or persons with a Military ID are admitted for free. Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim is located at 90 Hasell St., Charleston, SC 29401.
Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. General questions and FAM tours: rjarvis@onlyinyourstate.com.
