The Vilna Shul
Historic Sanctuary open and accessible to all
As soon as people find out that there is a little historic synagogue on Beacon Hill, they have begun to learn something new. Many people do not realize that just blocks away from the homes of some of Boston’s wealthiest residents, have historically lived some of its poorest residents. Jewish immigrants lived, worked and prayed throughout the tenement-filled neighborhood that included the North Slope of Beacon Hill and the old West End.
In 1919, a Lithuanian Jewish immigrant congregation that called itself Anshei Vilner (the people of Vilnius), lay the cornerstone for a little synagogue at 18 Phillips Street on Beacon Hill. Although the last member of Anshei Vilner Congregation left the building in 1985, the synagogue, better known as the Vilna Shul, is full of activity again. The Vilna has become a destination and a place of learning for anyone interested in Jewish history, culture and spirituality. It is a must-see historic site for visitors to Boston and a unique community venue for concerts, speakers, films, and Jewish life cycle events.
Downstairs in the old community room explore the Reconnect to the Tapestry exhibit and learn about the development of Boston’s Jewish community.
