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Kutaisi Synagogue: A Testament to Georgian Jewish Heritage

Discover the Kutaisi Synagogue, a beacon of Jewish heritage and architectural beauty in the heart of Georgia's ancient city.

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The Kutaisi Synagogue, located on Boris Gaponov Street, stands as a significant landmark of the city's Jewish heritage. Built in 1886 in Neo-Romanesque style, it's one of three synagogues in the area, showcasing the long-standing presence and cultural richness of the Jewish community in Kutaisi.

A brief summary to Kutaisi synagogue

  • 7PF5+JMR, Boris Gaponov Street, Kutaisi, GE
  • Monday 8 am-10 am
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 am
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 am
  • Thursday 8 am-10 am
  • Friday 8 am-10 am
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they can be limited and may vary.
  • Consider booking a tour to gain a deeper understanding of the synagogue's history and cultural significance.
  • Explore the surrounding Jewish quarter to experience the rich cultural heritage of the community.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the synagogue.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kutaisi city center, such as David Agmashenebeli Square, the Kutaisi Synagogue is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head east on Agmashenebeli Ave, then turn left onto Tsereteli Street. Continue onto Boris Gaponov Street, where the synagogue is located. The synagogue is on Boris Gaponov Street.

  • Public Transport

    From the Kutaisi Bus Station on Chavchavadze Avenue, take bus number 1 towards the city center. Get off near the Red Bridge and walk along Tsereteli Street to Boris Gaponov Street. The synagogue will be on your left. The bus fare is 0.4 GEL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kutaisi. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Rustaveli Avenue) to the Kutaisi Synagogue will typically cost between 5-10 GEL. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Kutaisi synagogue

Nestled in the heart of Kutaisi, the Kutaisi Synagogue stands as a testament to the city's multicultural history and the enduring legacy of its Jewish community. Official records indicate Jewish habitation in Kutaisi dating back to 1644. The synagogue, located on Boris Gaponov Street, is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of historical continuity and diversity. Constructed in 1886, the Kutaisi Synagogue, also known as the "Upper Prayer" or "Mtsvanekvavila Prayer", is one of three synagogues in the city, with the others built in 1852 and 1912. The "Big Temple," as the Kutaisi Synagogue is fondly known, is the second largest synagogue in Georgia. Its Neo-Romanesque architecture features a façade divided by three elegant arches, hinting at the magnificence within. Inside, the walls are adorned with vibrant paintings, echoing the artistry of its exterior. The synagogue has a capacity of 350 people. In 2014, a monument honoring Boris Gaponov, a scholar who translated "The Knight in the Panther's Skin" into Hebrew, was installed at the synagogue's entrance. The Jewish quarter, located between the Mtsvanekvavila district and Boris Gaponov Street, is home to all three synagogues, creating a unique cultural landscape. The synagogue is an active place of worship where the local Jewish community learns Hebrew, conducts religious rituals, and bakes matzah in traditional ovens.

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