Liberal Jewish Congregation

The multipurpose synagogue of the Liberal Jewish Congregation (LJG) in Amsterdam, with its 800 seats, is the largest shul in the Netherlands. The large, gray cube box on Zuidelijke Wandelweg in Amsterdam-Zuid does not at first remind one of a synagogue. But those who look more closely discover that Jewish elements have been incorporated on the outside. For example, Stars of David are hidden in the pattern of the tiles. A large window on the side of the building is shaped like a menorah, a seven-armed candelabrum. The shul room, on the second floor, seats 800 people and harkens back to ancient traditions. The bima, an elevation on which the Torah scrolls are read aloud, is placed in the center. On either side are double balconies, on which visitors can take a seat.