The synagogue sustained massive damage during the 1948 War of Independence. After the 1967 Six Day War, when Israel was reunified the Karaites began the slow process of restoration and renovation. Today it is once again used as a full functioning Karaite synagogue. Visitors can have guided tours of the building and there is even a small museum adjacent to the synagogue. When I go to Jerusalem, I look forward to visiting this synagogue, not only to admire it's historical significance, but to also learn more about the practice and beliefs of Karaite Jews.
Editor's note: Due to information provided by Eli'ezer ben Ephraim haKohen, a founding board member of Karaite Jewish University, this blog post was revised on 05/28/12.
