Where is the synagogue in Kutaisi and what is it known for?
A Jewish quarter with three synagogues from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Short answer
The synagogues of Kutaisi are in the Jewish quarter between the Mtsvanekvavila district and Boris Gaponov Street in the Imereti region. Three temples on that street date from the 19th and 20th centuries, and the Big Temple of 1886 is called the second largest synagogue in Georgia. The first official mention of Jews in Kutaisi dates to 1644.
Why
- The oldest temple in the city was built in 1852, the Big Temple in 1886 and a smaller synagogue next to it in 1912.
- Local Jews use the site to study Hebrew, hold religious rituals and bake matzah.
- In 2014 a monument to Boris Gaponov, who translated The Knight in the Panther's Skin into Hebrew, was installed at the entrance to the main synagogue.
Details
The main synagogue is known as the Upper Prayer or the Mtsvanekvavila Prayer. It is a large building with ornate facades, and the most striking one faces Gaponov Street and is divided into a triple arcade. The interior is completely painted.
The city and its surroundings are covered in What to see in Kutaisi and Where is Kutaisi. For the faith in the country, read What is the religion in Georgia.
Tip
Walk along Boris Gaponov Street: three synagogues stand on it, and the monument to Gaponov is at the entrance to the main one.
What may differ
Access, hours and visiting rules may change, so check them locally or with local organisers before you go.
People also ask
- Where is the synagogue in Kutaisi?
Sources
- Kutaisi Synagogue (georgia.travel)Checked at:
This answer is for reference only. Check opening hours, access and visiting conditions locally.
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