Kazan Choral Synagogue
A historic architectural gem and vibrant community hub, offering a glimpse into Jewish life and culture in Kazan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for photography
Kazan Choral Synagogue
Best Time
Best for photography
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic architectural gem and vibrant community hub, offering a glimpse into Jewish life and culture in Kazan.
"A special Jewish community led by Rabbi Itzik Gorelik. Simply amazing and especially impressive to see the community and the magnificent synagogue."
📸 Photography Tips
Try to visit from Friday evening to Saturday evening for best photo ops.
🅿️ Parking Advice
Parking can be tricky; paid parking is available at Barabus lot across the street.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Choral Synagogue
A magnificent architectural gem with a rich history, serving as a vibrant center for the Jewish community.
Community Hub
Experience the warmth of the Jewish community, with various organizations and activities housed within.
Kosher Dining
Savor delicious kosher cuisine at the Lehaim restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Jewish culinary traditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Access and Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Tips
Try to visit from Friday evening to Saturday evening for best photo ops.
🅿️ Parking Advice
Parking can be tricky; paid parking is available at Barabus lot across the street.
🍽️ Dining Delights
Don't miss the kosher food at Lehaim restaurant, open daily except Saturdays.
🤝 Community Welcome
Expect a warm welcome; people are friendly and may offer you a seat and water.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Tips
Try to visit from Friday evening to Saturday evening for best photo ops.
🅿️ Parking Advice
Parking can be tricky; paid parking is available at Barabus lot across the street.
🍽️ Dining Delights
Don't miss the kosher food at Lehaim restaurant, open daily except Saturdays.
🤝 Community Welcome
Expect a warm welcome; people are friendly and may offer you a seat and water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kazan Choral Synagogue as a magnificent and historically significant building, highlighting its role as a vibrant community center. The warmth and hospitality of the community, particularly Rabbi Yitzhak Gorelik, are frequently mentioned. The on-site Lehaim restaurant is a popular spot for delicious kosher food. Some visitors note that renovations are ongoing and parking can be a challenge.
"The great Rabbi Yitzchak Shlita is a unique personality,
leading the community with a high hand and sanctifying the name of God in all his actions.
I was privileged to be given a special hospitality with all the generosity and captivating smile."
shlomo d
"I have been coming here regularly since 1994 :) The synagogue was actually built in 1913, but recently, in order to get money for repairs, we thought about it and decided to build it in 1917. We are not against it - the repairs are excellent. It is important that the land was bought by the city's Jewish community with the community's money. In the late 1920s, services were stopped and the Teacher's House was established in the building, which saved the building from destruction or dilapidation. In the 1990s, Jewish organizations began working in the Teacher's House, holidays were held, and clubs operated. In 1996-1997, the building was transferred to the Jewish community. Both religious organizations and secular services are located here. The first floor and outbuildings belong to the religious community itself; the rabbi since the late 1990s has been Rabbi Yitzhak Gorelik. On the second floor is Hesed Moshe, a charitable organization. On the third floor there are public organizations, a Jewish agency, a youth club, a Sunday school, Hebrew courses, and clubs. On the fourth floor there is a library and the directorate. The building is guarded. You can come in to look, but you cannot go into the model room during prayer, try to go in to take pictures from Friday evening to Saturday evening, or on religious holidays. Most of the organizations in the EOBC (Jewish Community Center) work according to both the Russian and Jewish calendars. Accordingly, people vacation here much more often than in Russia or Israel:)"
Irina Krimshteyn
"Everyone has their own place for communion with God. According to the rabbi, this place once housed a synagogue, then an NKVD movie theater under the Bolsheviks, and then a synagogue again. Major renovations and reconstruction are slowly underway. The downside is there's no parking. Only paid parking is available in the Barabus parking lot, almost across the street."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The synagogue is located in Kazan, Tatarstan. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's centrally located. Paid parking is available at the Barabus parking lot across the street, which is a convenient option if you're driving.
Parking can be a challenge. The most reliable option is the paid parking lot at Barabus, located almost across the street from the synagogue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to look around is usually permitted, but specific areas like the model room might be off-limits during prayer times. It's best to check for any special event ticketing.
The synagogue building houses various organizations, including the Lehaim restaurant which operates daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, except Saturdays. 
Visiting during religious holidays is possible, and these times are often recommended for photography. However, access might be different than on regular days.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a vibrant community center with various organizations, a library, and spaces for religious and secular activities. The architecture itself is impressive.
Photography is generally allowed, with a suggestion to try from Friday evening to Saturday evening or during religious holidays for the best experience.
Originally built in 1913 and later reconstructed, the building has a complex history, serving as a synagogue, a movie theater, and now a community center.
Information on formal guided tours is limited, but the community is known for its welcoming nature, and you might find opportunities to learn more from locals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Lehaim restaurant is located within the synagogue complex, offering kosher Jewish cuisine.
Lehaim specializes in kosher Jewish cuisine, with mentions of dishes like Shawarma Tove and other Eastern flavors.
The restaurant is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, but it is closed on Saturdays.
Reservations can be made by calling +7 (812) 572-56-16.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are suggested to be from Friday evening to Saturday evening, or during religious holidays.
While generally allowed, avoid the model room during prayer times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during events or festivals that might be particularly engaging for children. The Lehaim restaurant also offers a chance for families to enjoy kosher meals together.
🍽️ Foodies and Culture Enthusiasts
+2Attending during a festival, like the 'Day of Israeli Cuisine,' can provide an even richer cultural immersion, complete with live music and diverse food offerings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Rich History and Community Center
Today, the synagogue is more than just a place of worship; it's a bustling community hub. It houses numerous organizations, including Hesed Moshe (a charitable organization), the Jewish Agency, a youth club, Hebrew courses, and a library. This multi-faceted role makes it a vital center for Jewish life in Kazan.
Visitors can explore the various floors, each dedicated to different aspects of community life. The presence of both religious and secular services ensures a dynamic environment. The ongoing renovations are a testament to the community's commitment to preserving and enhancing this historic site.
Culinary Delights at Lehaim Restaurant
+1The restaurant is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with the exception of Saturdays. This makes it a convenient spot for lunch or dinner on most days of the week. Reservations can be made by calling +7 (812) 572-56-16.
Social media posts highlight dishes like Shawarma Tove and other Eastern-inspired flavors, suggesting a diverse and appealing menu. The restaurant's presence adds another dimension to the synagogue's role as a cultural and social center.
+1
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit