Could a dilapidated former synagogue become Wales’ first Jewish heritage centre?

Proposals for a Welsh Jewish heritage centre took a step forward in September after The Foundation for Jewish Heritage bought the former Merthyr Tydfil synagogue.

Built in 1872, the synagogue is the oldest purpose-built synagogue in Wales. The Grade II-listed building, designed in the Gothic Revival style, is considered one of the most architecturally important synagogues in the UK. The synagogue was last used in 2006 and has since lain empty and in a deteriorating state.

They heyday of Merthyr’s Jewish community was in the early 1900s when the town’s Jewish population numbered around 400 people. Most of the community worked as traders (although some were pawnbrokers). There was a lively communal life that included a Literary and Social Society and a Cycling Club.

“The building is a nationally recognised historic site, which we want to use to tell a unique national story of the Welsh Jewish community. In restoring the building, we want it to once again play a meaningful role in the life of Merthyr,” said Michael Mail, chief executive of the Foundation for Jewish Heritage.

The Foundation is looking for funding for urgent repairs to be carried out. It is in discussion with Merthyr Tydfil council and an application has been made to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

By Rebecca Taylor

For more on Jewish Merthyr see our passport section on the Jews of Wales in the Oct 2009 issue of JR or visit foundationforjewishheritage.com.

This article also appears in the Oct 2019 issue of JR.