Historic Siberian Synagogue Offered for Sale at Nominal Price

The city of Mariinsk in Russia's Kemerovo region has put four historic buildings, including a synagogue constructed in the late 19th century, up for auction with a starting bid of just one ruble (less than four Israeli agorot). The sale is part of a privatization initiative, according to the municipal property management committee. Bids are being accepted until October 15, with the auction scheduled for five days later. The two-story stone synagogue, built in 1896 at 45 Lenin Street, spans approximately 510 square meters and was originally a place of worship for the local Jewish community. It ceased to function as a synagogue in the early 1930s, later serving as a sports club and then a post office before becoming vacant in 1999. The building is described as partially ruined and in need of extensive restoration, with preservation requirements mandating the maintenance of its original structure and facade elements. Also up for auction are a former residential building, a former alcohol plant's cultural center, and another house with land, all part of the "House for a Ruble" regional investment project. The former synagogue is officially recognized as a cultural heritage site in Mariinsk.