Kutaisi Synagogue: A Testament to Georgian Jewish Heritage

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.