Come by bus to visit the first LA synagogue, founded as Temple B’nai Brith during the early
years of the Lincoln administration. See and hear about its history, including the current main
campus on Wilshire Boulevard. The domed structure is inspired by the great cathedrals of
Europe and built in a Byzantine and Romanesque style. The interior is patterned after the
Pantheon in Rome. Brothers Jack, Harry, and Abraham Warner in memory of their brothers
Milton and Samuel donated the interior murals by studio artist Hugo Ballin. Film executive
Irving Thalberg donated the cost of painting the Shema prayer that frames the oculus and the
cost of the open eye at the center of the dome. Universal founder Carl Laemmle donated the
bronze Havdalah spice-box inspired chandeliers; Louis B. Mayer of MGM donated the east and
west stained-glass windows. Ben Meyer and Milton Getz of Union Bank donated a Kimball
organ.

Requirements

• Sign-up by March 7, 2024, no exceptions. Names as on photo ID must be provided to Wilshire Blvd Temple Security prior to the tour.
• Bring: Photo ID.
• Depart by bus from VBS at 9:15 am (don’t be late).
• Return by bus before 1:00 pm.
• No food or beverage is permitted in the tours. You may bring a snack on the bus.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. Be prepared to climb and descend stairs and advise your Docent in advance if there are any restrictions or a request for a wheelchair.
• Let us know if you plan to drive yourself.

RSVP Below: