Officials cancelled the scheduled auction of the historic synagogue in Slonim this week because no bids came in. The Foundation for Jewish Heritage, which has already been working with local partners on the synagogue’s preservation, meanwhile outlined further strategy and fund-raising plans for the long-derelict 17th century building ahead of an expected further auction later this year.
As we reported, the Slonim District Executive Committee Department of Culture put the synagogue — long the focus of fitful attempts at restoration — up for auction on June 15. The starting price was €50,000, but it was called off as no bids came in by the pre-auction deadline.
Conditions for purchase of the building, which is owned by the city, had included preservation of its “artistic, stylistic and design features” and had limited its use to that of religious building, or for cultural, educational or performance purposes. The terms also mandated a 5-year limit for carrying out the restoration.
On Thursday, the Foundation for Jewish Heritage announced that it had appointed the respected NGO the Belarusian Voluntary Society for the Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments as architectural consultants to undertake design studies for the synagogue restoration.
The Foundation has already funded a building survey, roof repairs and the installation of equipment to monitor structural movement as part of a restoration campaign, initiated under its auspices.
“Our expectation is that the Synagogue will go to auction again later in the year and we are confident the Foundation will then be able to offer a compelling vision for its restoration,” the Foundation said in a statement.
We will be working closely with the Voluntary Society over the coming months, and publishing the study and our proposals for the future of the Synagogue in due course.
It said:
Prior to formalising any intent to purchase, the Foundation has been keen to ensure that its approach is thorough, consultative, and able to deliver a long-term solution for the Synagogue as a profound educational site, memorial and historic landmark.
The Foundation said it would beef up fundraising efforts and also continue to engage other local and international heritage experts as plans are developed.
The Foundation is especially keen to hear from and involve those with family connections to Slonim and the region. Preservation of the Synagogue will require substantial fundraising and we will now also step up our engagement with philanthropic organisations and invite their participation.
Click to read the Foundation for Jewish Heritage statement