Karaite kenas

Karaite kenas occupy an area of 0.25 hectares in Yevpatoria. The complex name of the landmark hides a powerful prayer complex, the Karaites were considered imbued with the Jewish culture of the Turks and Byzantines. They professed a religion that was adopted by the Khazars and their descendants. Today, not only believers come here, but also tourists who study Russia and its history during their travels.

Short description

Karaite kenas are located on Karaimskaya Street. Kenas perform the function of preserving the heritage of a small ethnic group that inhabits Crimea. According to statistics, there are more than 2,000 representatives of this nationality left on the peninsula. They are culturally sensitive, and the locals respect their religious feelings. Tourists are attracted by an unusual structure, there is a museum of ancient art in Kenasi, where interesting excursions are held.

Here you can learn the history of the Karaite Kenas. The Karaites were displaced by other peoples in the past, and they fought fiercely for the possibility of their existence. And this battle lasted for the fifth century. The building is more than II centuries old, so different styles and eras are intertwined in it. Traditionally, sightseeing begins with the Vineyard Courtyard. The stone slabs depict almost the entire history of the Karaite Kenas.

Information for visitors

The entrance to the Marble Courtyard opens from the Vineyard Courtyard. It was built for the visit of Alexander I in the 1800s. Adjacent to it is the Lipiardium, where the slabs from the Karaite cemetery, which was barbarously destroyed, have been preserved. Then there is the prayer hall and the kenas.

The guided tour of Karaite kenas lasts a little over 1 hour, but it feels like it takes no more than 15 minutes. This is because it is saturated with a rich history that combines the drama of the ups and downs of the era. Positive emotions remain after her visit. Most often, the tour ends with lunch at an ethnic restaurant, where you can taste Karaite dishes and sweet treats. The easiest way to get to Karaite kenas is from the Gozlevsky gate. During the walk you need to follow the signs. In winter, the attraction is open from 10.00 to 17.00, and the rest of the year ‒ from 8.00 to 20.00. A regular tour costs 100 rubles, and 500 rubles with a guide.