The construction of Montenegro’s first synagogue, Ar Ashem, located on Radosava Burića Street in Podgorica, has officially begun, as announced by the Jewish Community of Montenegro. Members of the community attended a symbolic ceremony to mark the commencement of the project.

During the event, the Chief Rabbi of Montenegro, Luciano Moše Prelevic, offered a blessing for the successful start of the construction.

“We remind you that the foundation stone for the construction of this synagogue was laid in 2017, which started this important project. The Jewish community of Montenegro expresses its deep gratitude for the support of the Government of Montenegro, the capital city, as well as the companies Bemax and Mtel,” the announcement states.

The project of the synagogue was made by the company ENforma from Kotor headed by Nikola Novaković. The contractor is the company Bemax, while the companies All ING from Kotor and KOV Atelje from Nikšić are in charge of auditing and supervision.

“The construction of the Ar Ashem Synagogue symbolizes the contribution of the Jewish community to the development of cultural and religious diversity in Montenegro. This building, in addition to its religious significance, also has a deep symbolic meaning as a place of gathering, preservation of tradition and strengthening of interreligious dialogue,” said the Jewish community.

(European Jewish Congress)