The former Karaite Kenesa is a historic temple of Kyiv’s Karaite community, located near Golden Gate of Kyiv at Yaroslaviv Val Street, 7.
The building was constructed in the early 20th century at the initiative of philanthropist Solomon Cohen and designed by renowned architect Vladislav Gorodetsky in a Moorish Revival style unusual for Kyiv. It was distinguished by its rich ornamental stucco decoration.
After the establishment of Soviet rule, the temple was closed and later housed educational institutions, a cinema, and other facilities.
Since 1981, the building has been home to the House of Actors, which transformed it into an important cultural venue in Kyiv.
Today, the structure has suffered losses: its historic dome and spire are gone, and a Soviet-era extension was added in the 1970s.
The Kenesa on Yaroslaviv Val remains one of Kyiv’s most striking architectural landmarks of the late 19th and early 20th centuries — a testament to the city’s multicultural history and the talent of its architects.