Tykocin Synagogue

The Tykocin Synagogue is a historic synagogue building in Tykocin, Poland. The synagogue, in mannerist-early Baroque style, was built in 1642.

History
During the Nazi occupation of Poland in 1941, the synagogue was desecrated and then set up as a warehouse. After the end of the war, it remained in use as a warehouse for fertilizers. In 1965, a fire damaged the interiors.

The synagogue was thoroughly restored in the late 1970s. The historic wall paintings, most of which are decorative texts of Hebrew prayers, were restored. The elaborate, decorative ceiling was not reconstructed although some idea of the style can be gleaned from the design of the Torah Ark.

A former Beit Medrash (study and prayer hall) located across the street has been restored and is in use as a city museum.

Although no Jews now live in Tykocin, 40,000 tourists a year come to see the old synagogue, which remains "in lonely and unexpected splendor". The tourism has generated economic activity, including a cafe serving "Jewish-style" food and a bed-and-breakfast.