Following three years of comprehensive restoration work, the historic synagogue in Kislovodsk, Russia, has been rededicated in a festive ceremony attended by the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, and local dignitaries. The synagogue, originally built approximately 135 years ago, now stands fully restored as a center of Jewish life in the picturesque Caucasus region.
The celebration marked the completion of renovations that included both the synagogue and an adjacent historic building. A particularly meaningful discovery during the process was the original mikvah located in the basement, which has now been meticulously reconstructed.
At the ceremony, Rabbi Lazar was joined by the governor of the region, the mayor, and other officials, alongside community leaders, led by Rabbi Akiva Khudainatov, a native of the city who today heads the local Jewish community. Their tour of the site highlighted the extensive work carried out to revive the grandeur of the synagogue—an achievement made possible through the support of the local government and philanthropist Mr. Naum Babayev, also a Kislovodsk native, along with other benefactors.
Originally built in a time when the authorities permitted Jewish residence in the area, the synagogue served the community for many years until it was confiscated under Soviet rule. The site holds deep historical significance, having hosted visits from prominent Jewish leaders, including the Rebbe Rashab of Lubavitch, who established a soup kitchen there, and later the Rebbe Rayatz and the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
The recent restoration, led by skilled craftsmen using preserved archival photographs, has not only revived the original structure but also expanded it to include a new Torah study hall and library. A Torah scroll sent to the synagogue a few tears ago by Rabbi Yitzhak Kogan of the Bolshaya Bronnaya – Chabad synagogue in Moscow, was also inaugurated during the ceremony.
During the dedication, a letter of blessing from Rabbi Alexander Boroda, President of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia, was read by Rabbi Aharon Gurevich. Mezuzot were affixed by several visiting rabbis, including Rabbi Yitzhak Gorelik of Kazan, Rabbi Eliyahu Levin of Pyatigorsk, and Rabbi Levi Shabayev of Nalchik, alongside additional guests from Moscow.
Today, the synagogue serves both the local Jewish population and the many visitors who travel to Kislovodsk—one of Russia’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its mineral springs, clean mountain air, and proximity to Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe.
Photo: Alex Sheriftrakhen
