Synagogue in the village of Bandza

The synagogue in the village of Bandza, located in the Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti region in Western Georgia, is an important architectural and cultural monument. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the building is distinguished by a high level of architectural execution and is a significant historical object. The village of Bandza in the 18th century was a famous center of economic and social life in the region, where Fagava himself brought the Jewish family of Sovdagri to strengthen economic ties. In the coming years, other Jewish families joined them, which contributed to the development of a Jewish community of about 80 families.

Next to the synagogue there is an ancient Jewish cemetery, which, unfortunately, today looks abandoned. The last burial here was made in 1994. Most of the graves are very old and the inscriptions on them are difficult to read, and many of the headstones are split. However, visiting the cemetery allows you to honor the memory of departed members of the Jewish community, following the tradition of leaving stones on the graves.

In the 70s of the last century, the Jewish community left Bandza and emigrated to Israel, asking local residents to look after the synagogue and cemetery. Today the synagogue remains intact and well maintained, but access is limited as the building is locked.

A visit to the synagogue and ancient Jewish cemetery in Bandza provides a unique opportunity for historians, cultural experts and tourists to learn more about the Jewish community and its life in Georgia. This place is especially interesting for those who are interested in the history and culture of the Jewish people in Transcaucasia.