Ohr Somayach Synagogue, Cultural heritage synagogue on Yevreiska Street, Odesa, Ukraine
Ohr Somayach Synagogue is a religious center in Odesa featuring a spacious prayer hall with high ceilings and arched lateral openings. The building combines Florentine and Romanesque architectural details with contemporary functions such as administrative offices and broadcast facilities.
Architect P. Morandi designed and built the structure in 1850 as the Central Synagogue of Odesa. During the Soviet era it served as a gymnasium for the Pedagogical Institute, then was eventually returned to the Jewish community after the Soviet Union's collapse.
The synagogue houses a substantial library of Jewish literature and hosts regular cultural gatherings for visitors. People come here to experience Jewish traditions together and learn about religious life and practices.
The building is located centrally in Odesa and is most accessible on weekdays when daily prayer services occur. Hours may vary according to religious holidays, so it is advisable to verify opening times before planning a visit.
In 1996 the first major Jewish gathering after years of closure took place here, symbolizing the return of the space to the community. This moment marked an important turning point in the rebirth of Jewish life in Odesa after an extended period of silence.
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