£6 million for Merthyr Project!

There is very exciting news for Merthyr Tydfil with approval given for our major £6m project to restore the historic Synagogue overlooking the town centre and establish a new national Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre which celebrates the contribution of Welsh Jewish communities to the social, cultural and economic development in Wales. The project has been made possible thanks to very generous awards of nearly £4m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £1.7m from Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns initiative, and grants from several leading charitable organisations.

Heritage is deeply rooted in Merthyr Tydfil, reflecting the rich industrial, cultural and social history that has influenced both the local community and the wider story of Wales. Preserving and celebrating this heritage connects present and future generations with the people, traditions and achievements that define the town.

The Synagogue is among Merthyr’s most important architectural landmarks. It is also the most important Jewish heritage site in Wales, and the only historic purpose-built Synagogue in Wales to have survived. It serves as a valuable link to a unique aspect of the country’s multicultural past. The Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre will ensure the Synagogue will be open to the public and that it continues to enrich the town’s diverse story.

When its doors open in 2028, the Centre will feature an exhibition that showcases the history of Jewish communities in Wales and their experience, much of which is unknown. There will be an ambitious learning and activity programme, as well as events that bring together different communities to explore their distinct cultures and shared Welsh heritage. The Centre will enhance the expanding tourist and visitor offer in Merthyr Tydfil, and will also provide new facilities for the local community.

Andrew White, Director for Wales, The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: The Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre project will bring to life the rich and often under-told stories of Jewish communities in Wales, celebrating over 250 years of history and culture. Thanks to National Lottery players, this support will help restore and safeguard a historic Welsh synagogue and create a vibrant space where these stories can be shared, explored and enjoyed by future generations.

David Bearman, Chair of Trustees of the Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre, stated:  We are delighted to have received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government, Merthyr Council and charitable foundations to save the historic Synagogue in Merthyr Tydfil, the most important Jewish heritage site in Wales. This support will allow us to reopen the building to the public, and establish a new Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre with an exhibition that tells the stories of the contribution of Welsh communities to the social and economic development in Wales, and with a diverse programme for learning, events and activities. We thank all Lottery players who have helped make this possible.

For a short social media clip on the project, please click on the link below –