The Great Synagogue of Vilna, a spiritual center of Lithuanian Jewry before World War II, has been excavated for the first time, uncovering remains including a platform for reading the Torah. According to The Times of Israel, the synagogue was destroyed by the Nazis and Soviets, and its remains have been buried for 70 years. The excavation has revealed the heart of the pre-WWII Jewish community in Vilna.
The excavation has uncovered significant remains, including the platform for reading the Torah, which was the center of the synagogue's spiritual activities. The Times of Israel reports that this is the first-ever excavation of the prayer house, which served as the spiritual center of Lithuanian Jewry before its destruction. Limited information is available on the current state of the excavation and its future plans.
The Great Synagogue of Vilna was a significant cultural and religious center for the Jewish community in Lithuania before World War II, and its destruction was a devastating loss for the community. The excavation and uncovering of its remains provide a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the community.