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Gilaki (Winter Synagogue), Quba, Azerbaijan
The Gilaki (Winter Synagogue) in Quba (קובה), Azerbaijan (Azərbaycan).
Description
This synagogue was originally founded by Gilaki Jews, who came from the region of Gilan, in present day Iran, to Qırmızı Qəsəbə (Qirmizi Qasaba).
This synagogue is one of several buildings in the town built by Hillel Ben Chaim. This was the only synagogue building that remained active, even during Soviet times. This could be due to the fact that its compact size made it easy to heat during the winter.
This synagogue was chosen as one of the two synagogues to be restored, and it remains active the during winter months until late June. The synagogue was recently restored by former residents of Qırmızı Qəsəbə living in Russia.
Sources
Interviews with Rabbi Yonah Yacboi, P. Isakov, and B. Simonduyev.
Coordinates, pictures, and write-up provided by Arieh Scharnberg/Moreshet Adventures.