Archaeologists uncover treasures of Vilnius’ Great Synagogue as Lithuanian Jews dispute its future

Archaeologists have fully uncovered the 17th-century Great Synagogue of Vilna's floor and prayer platform, revealing significant historical treasures in Vilnius, once known as the “Jerusalem of the North.” The synagogue, largely destroyed by Nazis and razed by Soviets, was a vital Jewish religious and cultural center. Its main floor was preserved due to being built below ground level to adhere to historical restrictions.

“This is the place that half the population would have identified their city with,”

said archaeologist Jon Seligman. The discovery has sparked debate within Lithuania's small Jewish community regarding the site's future. The Lithuanian Jewish Community plans to build a new community center over the excavation, allowing visitors to view the synagogue's remains through a glass floor or basement exhibit, while also hosting contemporary Jewish life events. However, some Orthodox Jews, including Rabbi Sholom Ber Krinsky, argue the site should be rebuilt as a house of worship or preserved as a purely archaeological exhibit, asserting that “the holiness retains its holiness.” Other critics advocate for a broader mission that includes non-Jewish Lithuanians and promotes tolerance and understanding of Jewish history.