The oldest surviving synagogue in Wales, Merthyr Tydfil Synagogue, is set for a major transformation after receiving nearly £4 million in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The building, which has been empty for 20 years, was constructed in 1876 and is considered one of the most architecturally important synagogues in the UK.
Historic Building Saved from Decline
The Grade II-listed synagogue, perched on Bryntirion Hill, is instantly recognisable with its Gothic turrets and a Welsh dragon on its gable. It was built to accommodate the growing Jewish population in Merthyr Tydfil and surrounding areas but closed in 1983 due to a dwindling congregation. After briefly serving as a Christian centre, it became a fitness centre for 20 years, during which its historic interior—including the prayer hall, ark, and balcony—was altered or removed. The building closed its doors for good in 2004.
In 2019, the Foundation for Jewish Heritage purchased the synagogue. The successful funding bid will now enable a full restoration, creating jobs, volunteering opportunities, and community activities. Previous planning permission to convert the building into flats has been superseded by plans to establish Wales' national centre for Jewish history.
Plans for Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre
The transformation project will restore the prayer hall and involve an artist working with the local community to create new stained glass for the synagogue. David Bearman of the Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre expressed his delight at the funding, stating: "We are delighted to have received funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to save the historic Synagogue in Merthyr Tydfil, the most important Jewish heritage site in Wales. Lottery support will allow us to reopen the building to the public and establish a new Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre with an exhibition that tells the stories of the contribution of Welsh Jewish communities to social and economic development in Wales, and with a diverse programme for learning, events and activities. We thank all Lottery players who have made this possible."
Andrew White, director for Wales at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: "The Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre project will bring to life the rich and often untold stories of Jewish communities in Wales, celebrating over 250 years of history and culture. Thanks to National Lottery players, this support will help restore and safeguard a historic Welsh synagogue and create a vibrant space where these stories can be shared, explored and enjoyed by future generations."
