While this has been done we have also begun to set aside funds for the details for the interior that were not included in the initial budget. The somewhat un-expected 'discovery' of the tombs of the four rabbis in what was partially funded by the Lauder Foundation in NY put an added burden on the initial projection of funds as we had to reconstruct the divisions that separated the tombs from the synagogue site. We were very fortunate in having two Syrian workmen who immediately recognized the form of the oldest of the four tombs which follow a very old tradition. We also discovered evidence as to how they were made and thus this part of the site is now very authentic. The tombs have all been re-set, what bones were discovered have been re-interred and this week the entire area will be given a coat of whitewash. The photos show the tombs as they are at the moment.
The main problem we face now is the interior and the setting up of the Ehal and the Bema as well as some liturgical items. Fortunately we have one Sepher Torah but lack a 'yad', a proper kiddush cup, and liturgical books-siddurim and mahzorim according ot the Sephardi minhag. Recently a couple from Israel brought us a Humash with Rashi (which we didn't have) as well as a fine picture of the blessing of the Cohenim at the Cotel. The Ehal and Bema as well as benches for the interior are the main distractions at the moment. Fortunately I found an old chest (from Indonesia in teak wood) that is to be the centre of the Ehal. It will need to be given a wooden structure to integrate it into the East wall. The Bema has also been designed and will be quite prominent against the West wall with a pediment and also reader's desk raised under it. Since we had only the evidence of where they had been set into the walls in the form of sockets the design of the furniture is based on evidence that we have from both Kephlonia Synagogue as well as the furniture of the former synagogue of Patras. Both of these buildings provide sufficient evidence as to size, proportion as well as la-out of the interior. Our hope is that we can find funds to complete this very important aspect of this project. Any contributions to the present work will be an important mitzva and one that will be appropriately honoured.