Great Choral Synagogue, Neo-Mudéjar synagogue in Podil district, Kyiv, Ukraine.
The Great Choral Synagogue is a synagogue in the Podil neighborhood that stands out for its distinctive architectural style and carefully decorated surfaces. The building's exterior and interior both showcase ornamental details that reflect careful design throughout.
The building was constructed in 1895 and later underwent significant changes in its use and purpose. During the Soviet era it served very different functions before eventually returning to religious use.
This synagogue serves as a vital center for the local Jewish community, hosting daily prayers and religious gatherings that remain central to neighborhood life. The building itself reflects the role it continues to play in preserving traditions across generations.
Visiting is possible on weekdays and holidays during prayer times, as the building remains an active place of worship. Plan your visit ahead and dress respectfully, as this is a functioning religious space.
The building was approved through a clever method: submitted drawings showed only the side view, making it appear like an ordinary private residence. This deception allowed architects to work around restrictions that prohibited new synagogue construction.
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