Grand Choral Synagogue

Magnificent Moorish-style synagogue (1893) – the heart of St Petersburg's Jewish community.

The Grand Choral Synagogue at 2 Lermontovsky Prospekt in St Petersburg's Kolomna district is the city's most significant Jewish landmark. Built between 1880 and 1893 in the Moorish Revival style, it impresses with its oriental arches, intricate tracery and imposing dome. The interior houses one of Russia's largest Jewish prayer halls, with seating for more than 1,200 worshippers. The synagogue came under pressure during the Soviet era but remained open and was an important focal point for Leningrad's Jewish community. Between 2000 and 2005 the building underwent extensive renovation and now shines with renewed splendour. Today it serves as an active centre of Jewish Orthodoxy in Russia's second city.