Georgia-Israel celebrate 120th anniversary of Oni Synagogue

Georgia’s friendship with Israel has spanned more than 2,600 years but despite this longevity, both countries are continuing to foster and encourage long-lasting relations.

Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Garibashvili is visiting Oni village in the country’s remote western mountainous Racha region today to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the Oni Synagogue, which was recently rehabilitated thanks to support of Georgia’s former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili. 

Georgian officials, locals and Israeli envoys are at the site and have taken part in a small festive event to mark the occasion and the enduring friendship between Georgia and Israel.

I believe that after centuries Georgians and Israelis will gather here and celebrate our brotherhood and friendship,” Garibashvili said to the guests.

I want to especially thank Bidzina Ivanishvili who did his utmost to empower friendship between the two nations. It is his merit that our citizens can travel to Israel visa free and that we celebrate the important event together today,” he added.

Garibashvili, as head of the Government of Georgia, stressed Georgia was "a second home” for many Israelis, including Israeli Ambassador to Georgia Yuval Fuchs, whom he addressed. 

 Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili with Israeli Ambassador to Georgia   Yuval Fuchs. Photo by Prime Minister’s webpage. 

You are both guests and hosts here [and] that’s why I refer to you with love and respect and wish you peace and strength,” Garibashvili said. 

The Oni Synagogue is a Jewish prayer house and is regarded as an architectural monument, distinguished by its beauty.

Oni Synagogue. Photo by buadzek.wordpress.com

Restoration and rehabilitation works at the monument began earlier this year and was financed by Ivanishvili’s Cartu Charity Foundation.