Belarusian Jewish Museum | Exhibition Space | Wolpa VR Reconstruction & Tour

wolpa

VR-reconstruction of The Wolpa Great Synagogue

The Wolpa Great Synagogue is considered one of the most beautiful wooden synagogues ever built. Constructed in the first half of the 18th century in the town of Wolpa, it was a vibrant center of Jewish communal and spiritual life. Tragically, it was completely destroyed by the Nazis during World War II.

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wolpa

Wolpa, now a village in present-day Belarus, was once a thriving shtetl with a vibrant Jewish community. First documented in the 15th century as part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, it later became part of the Kingdom of Poland and, by the late 16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

The Great Synagogue is believed to have been constructed in Wolpa in the first half of the 18th century and was one of the most significant wooden synagogues in Eastern Europe. It is known for its stunning architecture and intricate handcrafted decorations. Tragically, it was completely destroyed by the forces of Nazi Germany during World War II.

Wolpa synagogue

Institute of Art, Polish Academy of Science

vr reconstruction

Wolpa synagogue

Institute of Art, Polish Academy of Science

VR reconstruction of the Wolpa Great Synagogue

Belarusian-Jewish Cultural Heritage Center

The spectacular Wolpa synagogue, adorned with paintings and architectural details, has been meticulously recreated in a virtual space by a team of curators, historians, restorers, and digital artists.

In the 1920s, the synagogue underwent a significant renovation, which transformed its interior. The team reconstructed two distinct interior versions so you can witness the synagogue's transformation over the years, reflecting the evolving times and the development of a local community.

Inside the Virtual Experience

Wolpa synagogue

Institute of Art, Polish Academy of Science

VR reconstruction of the Wolpa Great Synagogue

Belarusian-Jewish Cultural Heritage Center

Free Navigation Mode

Explore the synagogue at your own pace. Admire the exterior and interior architecture, detailed decorations, and restored paintings. Use the magnifying glass to examine artwork up close. Switch between pre- and post- renovation views. Also, see a 360° view of the present-day location where the Wolpa synagogue once stood.

Guided Tour

Take a curated tour with an audio guide available in English, Russian, and French. Follow a set route to learn about the synagogue's history and significance.