Synagogue, Bilshivtsi

The first mention of Bilshivka dates back to 1402. In the very center of the village there is a former two-story synagogue. In the second half of the 19th century, about 70% of the population of Bilshivtsi were Jews. They were mostly artisans and engaged in small-scale trade. Their school and library, as well as the Hamle Hesed charitable society, operated here. Before the Second World War, cultural, social, and religious life in the village was vibrant. A reminder of the large Jewish community is the synagogue in Bilshivtsi.

It was built in the 19th century and rebuilt in the early 20th century. The building is rectangular, brick, and wooden structures have been preserved. In the distant past, prayers were read in the synagogue, and today it houses the People's House.

To the right of the synagogue, you can see the main building of Bilshivtsi, the town hall. Immediately behind it is the palace of the Kszechunowicz family, surrounded by a park. Behind the park you can see the Jewish cemetery. The tallest building visible from anywhere in the village is the 17th-century Church of the Annunciation, which was recently restored.

The former synagogue is located in the center of the village. You can get to Bilshivtsi by bus or taxi from Halych, or by bus from Ivano-Frankivsk (bus station #2).