Important information
Vilnius announces renovation and commemoration plans at the site of the city’s former Great Synagogue
Nuotr. Sauliaus Žiūros
In conjunction with the announcement of plans to renovate the site of the Great Synagogue of Vilna, the Municipality of Vilnius recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jewish Community of Lithuania and the Good Will Foundation to commemorate the sacred historical site with a memorial garden square and Jewish community centre.
The Great Synagogue’s memorial square will be located at the site of the former building and its complex, and the Jewish community centre will be used in part to provide information about the Great Synagogue to the general public.
“The majority of Vilnius’ residents know that the city used to be referred to as the Jerusalem of the North. The history of Jewish spirituality and science can be seen in the faded Hebrew writing inscribed on the buildings of the former Vilnius Ghetto, memorial boards and monuments,” says Vilnius Mayor Remigijus Šimašius. “We have recently agreed to create a new centre of attraction for Lithuanians and foreigners in the location of the Great Synagogue, which was destroyed by the Soviets.”
Archaeological excavations on the site of the Great Synagogue of Vilnius were started in 2011. Archaeologists unearthed especially important parts of the pulpit (bima) – the foundations of two columns, two mikveh (ritual pools), a huge external rear wall of the Great Synagogue, and a part of its floor. In addition, embossed inscriptions with references to the Old Testament have been found on the walls by the bima – people are mentioned and the Book of Genesis is quoted in one of them, and another contains lines from the religious psalms.
Nuotr. Sauliaus Žiūros
The precise date of the Great Synagogue of Vilnius’ construction is not known. Historians believe that it was built after 1633, when Wladyslaw IV Vasa granted Litvaks the privilege to establish their own quarter in Vilnius. Moreover, the synagogue’s architect is also not known.
The Great Synagogue of Vilnius was among the biggest Jewish religious institutions in Eastern Europe. It was known as an important Jewish spiritual and educational centre, which contributed to Vilnius becoming known as the Jerusalem of the North. The synagogue was 25 m long, 22.3 m wide and 12.1 m tall, with two meters of the structure placed underground. It is said that this religious home was the most beautiful and largest synagogue built in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. According to some historical sources, it could accommodate up to 5,000 worshipers.
The Great Synagogue and other buildings of its complex were heavily damaged during World War II. Its remains were destroyed in 1955-1957. A kindergarten-nursery was built on the site of the Great Synagogue in 1964.
Marketing and Communication Division, [email protected]
Also read:
A chance for those who want to contribute to the development of Vilnius – take part in the election of sub-eldership representatives
As the end of the 2019-2023 term of office of the capital’s sub-eldership representatives draws near, Vilnius invites you to get ready for the new election of sub-eldership representatives. This year’s election will take place from 4 September to 13 October. Proactive Vilnius residents,... ❯❯❯
2023-08-07
Vilnius Announces Two Headliners for Biggest Summertime Festival—Bastille and Clean Bandit
Vilnius extends an invitation to all its residents and guests to come to the biggest party this summer—a free urban festival As Young As Vilnius on July 21-25. The program boasts traditional orchestra performances, numerous beloved local artist duos, and exciting headliners—British music... ❯❯❯
2023-07-05
Vilnius residents are invited to apply for social assistance for pupils for the next school year
Starting 1 July, applications can be submitted for social assistance for pupils, including free meals and school supplies, amounting to €98 per calendar year. Assistance provision conditions Pupils up to 21 years of age enrolled in pre-primary, general or adult education programmes are... ❯❯❯
2023-06-27
The capital increases the compensation for private kindergartens to €120
With inflation rising across the country, Vilnius increases the monthly compensation for those who choose to enrol their children in private kindergartens paid since 2015 to €120. This measure was taken eight years ago when there was an urgent need to address the shortage of places in... ❯❯❯
2023-02-14
Vilnius will organise city festivals through open calls for ideas
Vilnius will organise major city festivals and other public events of the city through open calls for ideas. The Council adopted a resolution which will open up the opportunity for attracting to the city's festivals more professionals working in the cultural area and social partners, and will... ❯❯❯
2023-02-14
A celebration for children from Ukraine by the Christmas tree at the Cathedral Square
During the period between Christmas and New Year, Ukrainian children living in Vilnius will gather for a fun winter celebration at the Cathedral Square. On 28 December, from 4 pm to 7 pm, hundreds of volunteers will welcome Ukrainian children at the Christmas tree, baking doughnuts, serving tea... ❯❯❯
2022-12-22
