Synagog of Besancon

The Synagog of Besancon , original by its architecture of Moorish style, was inaugurated in 1869.

History

An imperial decree of the May 22nd 1867 authorizes the acquisition of a ground Quai Napoleon, and the Jewish community entrusts to the Besancon-native architect Marnotte the care to draw up “a Moorish monument of style”.

After a first project considered to be too expensive by the city, a second project of an amount of 94.349,55 francs is accepted “not included/understood the additional expenditure caused by the decorations of the frontage, intended at the request of the municipality to embellish the new Napoleon Quay…”. The total expenditure rises finally with 145.105,90 francs, including/understanding a participation of the State of 10.000 francs.

A subscription is opened by the Jewish community and brings back 70.000 francs (including 20.000 francs of the family Veil-Picardy). A loan of 70.000 francs supplements the financing. A legacy of Alexandre Lipman will allow the payment of part of the interests of the loan which represents a heavy load for the Community.

The November 18th 1869, the synagog is inaugurated “in the middle of a big competition of people”. At this occasion, the Veil-Picardy banker places at the disposal of the Charitable organization of the Community, a sum of 1.000 francs “for distributions of meat to the catholic poor families and Protestant women of the city, the day of the ceremony”.

This generous patron also makes a gift to produce the grid which surrounds the synagog.

During the inauguration, the Chief rabbi of Besancon Jacques Auscher makes a speech which is printed under the title “the future of Israel”.

External bond

Jewish Presence in Besancon

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