The Rich History of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague

The site of this synagogue has a very long history. It was originally the location of the "Old Shul," the oldest prayer house in the city. By the 19th century, the local community needed a larger space. They demolished the old building to make room for something new. The current structure was completed in 1868.

Architects designed the building in the Moorish Revival style. This style was inspired by the Alhambra in Spain. This is why people call it the Spanish Synagogue. The interior features intricate geometric patterns and lots of gold leaf. It is widely considered the most beautiful synagogue in Europe. In 1998, a major restoration returned the building to its former glory.

The synagogue is now a key part of the Jewish Museum. It houses a permanent exhibition about Jewish history in the Czech lands. You can see silver artifacts and historical documents here. The building is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting this landmark is essential for anyone interested in the history of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague. You should check the tickets for the Jewish Museum in Prague before you go.

10 Must-See Jewish Quarter Prague Landmarks

The Jewish Quarter, or Josefov, is packed with history. You can see many sites with a single circuit ticket. Here are the top landmarks to include in your itinerary.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Spanish Synagogue
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Old-New Synagogue
• Quick Pick: Most Moving - Pinkas Synagogue
• Quick Pick: Best Free View - Jewish Quarter Streets

1. Name: Spanish Synagogue Type: Sight/Museum Why go: To see the incredible Moorish gold interior and learn about local Jewish history. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Vězeňská street. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square. Tip: Attend an evening classical concert here for the best atmosphere.
2. Name: Old-New Synagogue Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It is Europe's oldest active synagogue, built in the 13th century. Best for: History buffs. Where: Maiselova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate or bundled ticket. Getting there: Near the Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Look for the chair where the Chief Rabbi supposedly sat.
3. Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: Sight/Nature Why go: It is one of the oldest and most famous Jewish burial grounds in the world. Best for: Photographers. Where: Široká street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Museum pass required. Getting there: Short walk from the Pinkas Synagogue. Tip: Visit during Old Jewish Cemetery Prague visiting hours early in the morning.
4. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Type: Museum/Memorial Why go: It serves as a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust from Bohemia and Moravia. Best for: Reflection. Where: Near the cemetery entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Central Josefov. Tip: Look at the hand-drawn pictures by children from the Terezín Ghetto upstairs.
5. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It holds a large collection of Jewish silver and historical objects. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Maiselova street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Easy walk from the Old-New Synagogue. Tip: Use the interactive touchscreens to learn about the Jewish community's growth.
6. Name: Klausen Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It is the largest synagogue in the former ghetto and explains Jewish customs and traditions. Best for: Cultural learning. Where: Next to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Near the Ceremonial Hall. Tip: Great for understanding Jewish holidays and life cycles.
7. Name: Ceremonial Hall Type: Sight/Museum Why go: This neo-Romanesque building was once the morgue for the Burial Society. Best for: Unique history. Where: U Starého hřbitova street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Right at the cemetery exit. Tip: Notice the detailed paintings of burial rituals.
8. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: Art Gallery Why go: It hosts temporary exhibitions of Jewish artists and themes. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: U Staré školy street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Getting there: Behind the Spanish Synagogue. Tip: Check the museum website for the current exhibition theme.
9. Name: Jerusalem Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the newest and largest synagogue in Prague, featuring Art Nouveau and Moorish styles. Best for: Vibrant colors. Where: Jeruzalémská street (near the main train station). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Tram or metro to Hlavní nádraží. Tip: It is outside the main Jewish Quarter but worth the 15-minute walk.
10. Name: Jewish Quarter Walking Tour Type: Experience Why go: A guide provides deep context on the history of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Various meeting points. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by provider. Getting there: Meet near Old Town Square. Tip: Choose a tour that includes museum entry to save time.

Practical Tips for Your Jewish Quarter Visit

Visiting the Jewish Quarter requires some planning. Most sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Check the official tourism portal for specific closure dates. Buying a bundled ticket is the best way to save money. This ticket covers almost all synagogues and the cemetery.

The area is very walkable and flat. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet for several hours. Respectful behavior is expected at all times. Men may be asked to wear a kippah (head covering) in some synagogues. These are often provided at the entrance.

To avoid the biggest crowds, arrive when the museum opens. The Spanish Synagogue often gets busy in the late afternoon. If you have time, explore the nearby best attractions in Prague after your tour. The Old Town Square is only a five-minute walk away.