Pinkas Synagogue, Renaissance synagogue in Josefov, Prague, Czech Republic
Pinkas Synagogue is a Renaissance building with five stone-arched windows and thick walls supported by reinforcing pillars beneath the ceiling. Inside, a ribbed vault creates an elegant structure that frames the prayer hall.
The synagogue was built in 1535 by Aaron Mesullam Horowitz, a member of the Jewish community living in this district at the time. The building was constructed between his former residence and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
The walls display handwritten names of thousands of victims from Bohemia and Moravia who died during World War II. These names are a direct testimony for visitors, making the history of these people tangible and personal.
Access is through a combined ticket with the Jewish Museum, which also covers other Jewish heritage sites in the area. It is advisable to allow enough time for your visit, as the walls contain many handwritten names to read.
The building houses an exhibition of drawings created by children from the Theresienstadt concentration camp, thousands of which have survived. These artworks offer insight into the thoughts of children during one of history's darkest periods.
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