Historic Siberian Synagogue Returned to Jewish Community After Nearly a Century

The historic synagogue in Ulan-Ude, the capital of Buryatia in southeastern Russia, has been formally returned to the local Jewish community after nearly 100 years of closure to Jewish worshippers. Built in 1882, it was shut by the communist authorities in 1929 and later used for secular purposes, including as a university and an aviation club.

According to historical documents, the property was confirmed to belong to the Jews, ending a long bureaucratic struggle that was completed officially during 2026. The effort was led by philanthropist Yan Yenkilievich, described as one of the leading figures in the regional communities.

Rabbi Aharon HaKohen Wagner, the emissary and chief rabbi of Irkutsk, who closely follows the Ulan-Ude community, said the project will be large and complex. It will include demolishing the upper floor added in the Soviet era and carefully restoring the original structure.

The news has sparked great excitement among Jews across the region. The community is now working to secure the remaining permits from the authorities so restoration can begin before the upcoming holidays. The chief rabbi is expected to host Yenkilievich soon and bless the project, while community leaders hope the synagogue’s reopening will revive Jewish spiritual life and strengthen the community for future generations.