Prague’s Jewish Quarter
Popular ChoiceNo doubt Prague's Jewish Quarter is the most interesting one in Europe. We'll let you have a peek into the richness of our history and culture. We protect this treasure by sharing our knowledge through historical facts, stories and legends with you emphasizing the authenticity of being active Jewish locals - as that is who we are.
Some of the sites you'll visit...
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Old New synagogue
The oldest continuously functioning synagogue in the world. A mysterious building of 800 years of golden and dark periods of the Jewish history. The synagogue of Yehuda Loew ben Bezalel – the Maharal of Prague
Pinkas synagogue
The Pinkas Ha Levi Ish Horowitz Synagogue is the main memorial for the Czech Jews who were murdered by the Nazis in the WWII. On the walls of this 16th century Synagogue are recorded names of more than 78 000 shoah victims.
Old Jewish Cemetery
The hebrew expression for cemetery the house of life is an accurate description of the old Prague Jewish Cemetery– burials were taking place here over the period of 300 years, the gravestones describe the cultural wealth of Prague Jewry.
Spanish synagogue
One of the most beautiful synagogues in Europe.
Explore the origins of Jewish community in Prague
As the Jewish population was in medieval times exclusively subjected to the King – Emperor; the Jewish quarter was independent from the city of Prague, however being situated in the center of the city. This is why the Jewish Quarter had its own court of justice, jails, guards etc.
Facts, Myths and FAQs
How many Jews live in Prague?
Approx. seven thousands (including expats), out of which 1300 subjected to the Chief Rabbinate.
What does it mean to be subjected to the Chief Rabbinate?
As the Chief Rabbinate is Orthodox, most of the Prague Jews are not members of the Kehila. For different reasons.
Are there Reform and Conservative congregations?
Yes, there are-Bejt Simcha, Bejt Praha, Masorti Olami.
What about the anti-semitism in the Czech country?
We do have some records mainly on the Internet.
Was the Jewish Museum installed by A. Hitler as a Museum of an Extinct Race?
Not at all. The Jewish Museum was opened by Dr. Solomon Hugo Lieben in 1906. Hitler was totally unknown adolescent at that time
Was the Jewish Quarter area Josefov a ghetto also during the WWII?
No, it was not. Nazis confiscated villas, houses, apartments of Jews and the Jewish leadership then finding accommodation at friends and relatives.
