The oldest surviving synagogue in Wales is set to undergo a comprehensive restoration and will be transformed into a Jewish heritage centre, following the award of a £3.9 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The Merthyr Tydfil synagogue, purchased by the Foundation for Jewish Heritage in 2019, had already benefited from initial stabilisation efforts to preserve its structure.

Located in Merthyr Tydfil, the synagogue holds significant historical and cultural value as a symbol of Jewish life in Wales. The upcoming restoration project aims to safeguard the building's architectural features while adapting the space for educational and community use.

The funding will support extensive conservation work designed to return the synagogue to its former condition and create a dedicated venue celebrating Jewish history and heritage. The Foundation for Jewish Heritage intends for the site to serve as a hub for engagement, learning, and cultural exchange, highlighting the contributions of Jewish communities in the region.

The project follows a growing recognition of the importance of preserving sites of minority histories across the United Kingdom. By restoring the Merthyr Tydfil synagogue, stakeholders hope to ensure that this emblematic structure continues to educate and inspire future generations.

The restoration timeline and specific plans for the heritage centre’s programming have yet to be detailed. However, the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s grant marks a significant step toward revitalising one of Wales’s most notable Jewish landmarks.