Our next stop was to the Tunisian Shul in Acco. This shul was started by Sephardic Jews of this North African Country in 1955. Upon entering the shul it is not clear where to look first. The entire, and we mean entire shul is full of mosaic pictures. From floor to ceiling, from right to left there are mosaics everywhere.
One can learn the entire history of the Jews here. There are mosaics of each stories of Torah and Navi. There are mosaic maps of every time period, including where holy people are buried. There are maps of Europe as well. Mosaics include information about kosher animals, Israel’s flora, zodiacs and holidays. There are mosaics for the 12 tribes and famous sites in Israel. In addition modern history is represented.
It is amazing to look at the detail. The women’s section has stories of Sara, Rivka, Rochel and Leah as well as the blessings of mitzvoth associated with women. The ceiling of the women’s section is a beautiful chupah scene.
The 6 aron holds many Torah scrolls and behind the scrolls are even more mosaic tile pictures. The doors of the aron are made of sterling silver with intricate designs. We took many photos and were continuously in awe at every turn. Some of us decided that focusing on davening would be challenging while in the shul.