High Synagogue, Renaissance synagogue in Josefov Quarter, Prague, Czech Republic.
The High Synagogue stands on Červená Street, its three tall windows facing the Old New Synagogue. Built in the High Renaissance style, it occupies the first floor of the Jewish Town Hall, with a stucco ceiling of Gothic ribbed vaulting and a central bimah once surrounded by seats.
Built in the High Renaissance style and financed by Mordechai Maisel, mayor of the Prague Jewish Town, the synagogue was completed in 1568 next to the Jewish Town Hall. It was designed by the Italian Pankratius Roder, probably modelled on the High Synagogue of Kraków (1556). Partly destroyed by the Great Fire of 1689, it was rebuilt in 1691 and remodelled by J. M. Wertmüller in 1883.
This space historically brought together Jewish community leaders and council members for important discussions. Today visitors can sense how the room still serves as a gathering place for the local Jewish community during religious celebrations and life events.
Entry is through the adjacent Town Hall building, so allow time to navigate the entrance passage. The location in Josefov is walkable and the neighborhood is compact, making it straightforward to reach and explore surrounding sites.
The synagogue owes its name to its raised position on the first floor of the Jewish Town Hall, reached originally only through the town hall itself. Its three tall windows open onto Red Street, facing the Old New Synagogue opposite.
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