The Ukrainian government has officially designated the tziyon of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov in Uman as a national heritage site.

The announcement, made by the Ukrainian Embassy in Israel, confirms that the revered site—where tens of thousands of Yidden gather each year for Rosh Hashanah despite ongoing war conditions—will now receive the highest level of state protection under Ukrainian law.

“This decision strengthens the cultural and spiritual ties between our nations,” said Ukraine’s Ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniychuk, in a public statement. “The national heritage monument status is a recognition of the deep historical and religious significance of Jewish culture as an inseparable part of Ukrainian heritage.”

The move is expected to bolster efforts to maintain and secure the Uman complex, especially amid ongoing concerns about regional instability due to the conflict with Russia. Korniychuk noted that even as Russian forces continue to target civilian infrastructure—including religious and historical landmarks—Ukraine remains steadfast in preserving sites of spiritual value.

The kever of Rebbe Nachman has long been a focal point of tefillah and inspiration for Yidden worldwide. The annual Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage has endured through times of both peace and conflict, drawing mispallelim from across the globe.

Observers note that this new designation may pave the way for improved access, preservation, and recognition of Jewish heritage throughout Ukraine—a meaningful gesture as the country faces one of the most challenging periods in its modern history.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)