Old New Synagogue, Gothic synagogue in Josefov, Czech Republic
The Old New Synagogue is a stone house of worship in Josefov, Prague, built on a rectangular plan with two aisles separated by narrow pointed arches. The vaults show steep Gothic ribs, and the roof rises in two sharp gables of red brick.
Stone masons from the royal workshop built the house of worship in 1270, when Prague Jews erected their first permanent stone structures. The congregation has used the space for services ever since, making it the oldest active religious building of its kind on the continent.
The prayer room centers on a raised platform enclosed by a wrought-iron grille dating from the 13th century. The banner of the Prague Jewish Community hangs on the wall, showing a six-pointed star.
Visitors can only enter the interior as part of a guided tour of the Jewish quarter, which should be booked in advance. The space is small and allows only a limited number of people at a time.
The attic is closed to visitors and, according to oral accounts, contains the remains of the Golem, a clay figure that Rabbi Loew is said to have shaped to protect the community. The story ranks among the city's most famous legends and still attracts curious travelers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
