The first market square was formed in Kėdainiai in the 15th century and was called the Old Market Square due to it being the oldest market. It is believed that this was the place of the first town hall. In the first half of the 17th century, Jews moved in near the square. At the beginning of the 18th century, the future Gaon of Vilnius Elijahu studied Talmud in Kėdainiai. A complex of synagogues was built at the end of the 18th century – during the first half of the 19th century. The Great Summer Synagogue was built in the 18th century, after the old one burnt down. It is one of two Baroque style synagogues in Lithuania. Now an Art School is established here. The other Small Winter Synagogue, built in the first half of the 19th century, also carried out the function of a school. A Multicultural Centre has opened its doors in the synagogue on 16 August 2002. It organizes tours, shows, classical music concerts, jazz evenings, conferences, seminars and carries out educational activities. In the Centre, there is a small exposition dedicated to the history of the Jewish community of Kėdainiai and the Holocaust. Exhibitions are also continuously held here.
Address
Senosios Rinkos aikštė (Old Market Square), Kėdainiai
Website
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