A historic synagogue in Ulan-Ude, the capital of Buryatia in southeastern Russia, has been officially returned to the local Jewish community after a long legal and bureaucratic battle that was completed in 2026. The building first opened in 1882 and was closed by the communist authorities in 1929. For nearly a century, it was repurposed for secular uses, including as a university and an aviation club.
The property was identified in historical documents as belonging to Jews, clearing the way for its return. The effort was led by philanthropist Yan Yankilievich, described as one of the key supporters of Jewish communities in the region. Rabbi Aaron Cohen Wagner, the emissary and chief rabbi of Irkutsk, said the project is complex and wide-ranging and will include tearing down the Soviet-added upper floor and accurately restoring the original structure.
According to community head Yosef Samsonov, the donor has taken on the major restoration project, including building a decorative ark for the Torah and placing a Star of David atop the dome. He said this was helped by his personal connection with Rabbi Benjamin Wagner, the rabbi of Krasnoyarsk, and by his encouragement throughout the project. The news has stirred strong excitement among Jews across the region.
The Chief Rabbi, who is closely following the work, is expected to host the donor soon and bless the initiative. Community leaders are now working to obtain the remaining permits so renovation can begin before the upcoming holidays. They hope the synagogue’s reopening will revive Jewish and religious life in the community and strengthen its future for generations.
