Among the many original architectural structures of Simferopol can be distinguished building, which is rightly called the only one of its kind in the city, a magnificent building with a tragic fate. This is Simferopol Kenassa — an ancient temple of the Karaites, one of the smallest peoples of the world.
The Karaite kenassa was built in 1891-1896 at the expense of the Karaite community, and its lighting took place on August 26, 1896.
The architectural ensemble of Karaite Street was enriched with a real gem. The two-story building of the kenassa with an attic richly decorated with decorative elements and crowned with a six-pointed Star of David on the side of the front entrance, made the most favorable impression on all who saw it, delighted with its beauty, harmony of decoration and strict straight lines.
Like many late 19th century buildings erected in the Crimea, the kenassa was built in an eclectic style, combining elements of Byzantine, Moorish and Gothic architecture. Carved stone columns along the exterior walls, round windows in the upper part of the building, towering over the front entrance turrets and openwork window — each element, each detail, combining to form a unique ensemble that will delight the eye of anyone interested in beautiful architecture.
Such was the Karaite kenassa until 1935, when it was decided to rebuild it. Part of the cult decoration was lost, the Star of David was replaced by the symbol of the Soviet era — the red star. However, just as it was not possible to completely erase the traces of the Karaite symbol, to this day visible from under the red star, it was not possible to finally destroy the beauty of the kenassa, even after the rebuilding of the temple has not lost its light and unique style.
Since 1930 Simferopol kenassa was closed by the authorities, after the rebuilding of the building 1934-1935 years in it entered the editorial office of radio broadcasting of the State TV and Radio Company «Crimea», which worked there until 2009. During this period of time, the kenassa was not restored or repaired, so today it can be seen as it was in 1935.
Today on the building of Simferopol kenassa can be seen a security plaque, indicating that this magnificent architectural monument is again protected by the authorities. Since 1992, the Karaite community, intending to restore the building, has been seeking the return of the kenassa. The further fate of this iconic attraction of Simferopol seems to be more favorable than the period it lived from 1935 to our time.
Any guest of the city, coming to holiday in Crimea, notes the beauty and romance of the ancient building, not to notice which is simply impossible, and the bright temple, which has steadfastly survived the Soviet period, looks to the future with hope and as if confident in the return of its purpose.