History

Israeli-Led Dig Reveals Vilna Synagogue's Main Prayer Hall

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Courtroom-sketch editorial illustration of archaeologists working across the exposed main prayer hall and patterned floor of the Great Synagogue of Vilna.

An Israeli-Lithuanian team has uncovered extensive sections of the Great Synagogue of Vilna's main prayer hall after a Soviet-era school above the site was demolished. The monthlong excavation exposed the central bimah, colorful terrazzo floors, remains of the women's gallery, seat plaques bearing worshipers' names, and a Ten Commandments plaque. The 17th-century synagogue was the spiritual center of Lithuanian Jewry before the Nazis ransacked it and Soviet authorities demolished its remains. Archaeologists say the finds will help preserve the site as a heritage and memorial space.

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