Grodno. Great Choral Synagogue.

The first wooden synagogue was built in Grodno in the 16th century. However, it burned down. Soon after the fire, with the permission of the king, a new synagogue was built on the same site, but it suffered the same fate – it also burned down.

The current building of the Great Choral Synagogue is a unique architectural monument. It was built in 1902-1905 in the Moorish style. The synagogue was erected on the foundation and using the walls of the previous synagogue.

In 1940, the synagogue was closed by decision of the Soviet authorities. During World War II, Jews were gathered here before being shot, the synagogue itself was looted, and the façade was badly damaged. After the war, the building was used as warehouses and workshops.

In 1991 the building was returned to the Jewish religious community, and in 2011 reconstruction began.

Today, the synagogue building boasts beautiful architecture: the facade is decorated with stucco, the window openings have rich and beautiful frames. The interior of the synagogue is dominated by beautiful stucco decor. Today, the decoration of the prayer hall has been almost completely restored.

A private museum of Jewish history has been created in the synagogue, which also contains information about public figures and cultural figures of Jewish origin.

Services, festive gatherings and thematic meetings are held here daily.