SIENA – The synagogue reopens honoring donors

On September 14, the European Day of Jewish Culture, Siena’s synagogue (Tuscany) reopened its doors two and a half years after being damaged by an earthquake. While some renovations are still ongoing, the emergency structural reinforcement is complete. The contributions of foundations, institutions, and private donors were paramount to this endeavor. “At the time, we were faced with an insurmountable challenge,” explained Brett Lalonde, who oversaw fundraising for the Jewish Community of Florence. “The only Jewish place of worship in Siena, a site deeply rooted in the city’s history, had been declared unfit for use. According to the initial estimates, the cost of restoration would far exceed our means,” he added. Help came from many places, including internationally. Lalonde said this allowed them to spread “a message of hope that this place would remain open, thanks in part to our young members, who were passionate about the project and volunteered.”

For this reason, David Fiorentini, the former president of the Union of Italian Young Jews (UGEI), unveiled a plaque dedicated to all those who made the project possible. “Hundreds of people around the world contributed to the restoration of Siena’s synagogue, and every donation was crucial,” said Lalonde. “Much still needs to be done, and the project will continue. However, today we can finally say that we are open again.”

Architect Renzo Funaro, president of the Opera del Tempio Ebraico (the body that oversees the repair, maintenance, and restoration of the synagogue and other Jewish heritage sites in Tuscany) and vice president of the Foundation for Jewish Cultural Heritage, attended the ceremony. He outlined the work that was carried out. Also in attendance were Lamberto Piperno Corcos, a councilor of the Jewish Community of Livorno, and representatives of the World Monuments Fund.