A renewed entrance area and a new exhibition were recently inaugurated at the Great Synagogue of Grodno, a central landmark of Jewish history founded in 1578. The project represents another step in the ongoing efforts to preserve the synagogue and strengthen Jewish communal life in the city.
Rabbi Yitzchak Kofman, the city rabbi and Chabad emissary, shared that the renovation of the entrance was completed over several months following a carefully planned process, with particular attention given to detail and visitor experience. The works included new flooring, the installation of a modern and dignified lighting system, and the creation of a unique exhibition space located at the synagogue’s entrance.
The exhibition presents Jewish life throughout the yearly cycle and features moving photographs from the life of the local Jewish community. Through a clear and visually engaging display, it tells the story of Jewish continuity in Grodno in an accessible and inspiring way, offering visitors—both Jewish and non-Jewish—a meaningful introduction to the cultural and spiritual world of the community.
The Great Synagogue of Grodno has a long and complex history. Its first structure was built between 1576 and 1580 at the invitation of Rabbi Mordechai Yoffe, based on a design by the Italian architect Santi Gucci, but was destroyed by fire in 1617. A second synagogue was later built and also burned down in 1899. The current building, constructed between 1902 and 1905 in an eclectic Moorish style, stood at the heart of a thriving Jewish city, which was known as one of the Jewish intellectual centers of Europe. At the beginning of the 20th century, Grodno was home to an extensive network of Jewish schools, libraries, and charitable institutions, and Jews played a central role in the city’s economic, cultural, and professional life.
At the entrance to the synagogue, a digital screen now welcomes visitors with a short video introducing the building’s history and explaining the role and meaning of a synagogue. The video opens with the greeting, “Welcome to the oldest synagogue in the former Soviet Union,” and provides visitors with essential context about the synagogue’s spiritual and cultural significance.
A small reception desk has also been added to the entrance area, where visitors can purchase original Jewish souvenirs, including kippot featuring images of the synagogue, menorahs, and other commemorative items. For many visitors, this offers an opportunity to take home a tangible reminder of their visit and maintain a lasting connection to Grodno’s Jewish heritage.
The synagogue’s history also reflects the hardships endured by the Jewish community. Its interior was vandalized in 1941, and the building was closed by Soviet authorities in 1944. It was returned to the Jewish community in 1991 and restored under the direction of Rabbi Yitzchak Kofman. After being damaged by fire once again in 2013, the synagogue was restored and has since returned to active use.
Since the completion of the entrance renovation, the synagogue has seen a noticeable increase in visitors. Many report a sense of respect and significance upon entering the site, noting the well-maintained surroundings and dignified atmosphere. According to community plans, the next stage of renewal is expected to focus on the main prayer hall, with the aim of restoring it in a way that reflects the synagogue’s historical and spiritual importance and ensures a welcoming space for prayer and communal life.