The Great Vilna synagogue, built in 1633, was widely known in Europe for centuries as the center of spiritual, cultural and social life of the Jewish community. It was damaged during the Nazi occupation and totally demolished by the Soviets after the World War II. Archeological research proves that authentic remnants of the Great Vilna synagogue still remain buried 2 meters below the ground level.

2017 September 4-5, ,,Jerusalem of the North” organized conference ,,How to commemorate the Great synagogue of Vilna site?” and brought together international experts who presented the history and architecture of the building, as well as the recent archaeology undertaken at the site that has unearthed the building’s foundations and two mikvehs, presented different experiences of commemoration.

The aim of the conference was to discuss the commemoration aspects of the Great Vilna synagogue site, meeting its significance and modern heritage protection standards. Discussion was focused on what to do now with the site — a topic that has sparked depart for more than a quarter of a century.