Klausen Synagogue
Synagogue in Prague
Standing proudly at the entrance to Prague’s Old Jewish Cemetery, the Klausen Synagogue offers one of the most immersive and accessible introductions to Jewish life and customs in the Czech lands. Built at the turn of the 18th century following the devastating fire of 1689, it rose from the ruins of three smaller structures—a synagogue, a school, and a ritual bath—that had served the ghetto’s spiritual and educational needs. Reimagined in striking Baroque style, the Klausen Synagogue is the largest synagogue within the Jewish Quarter and a powerful architectural and cultural statement of post-fire resilience.
Inside, the synagogue hosts a permanent exhibition that focuses on Jewish traditions, festivals, and the rhythm of everyday life. Visitors are guided through the cycles of the Jewish calendar, with special emphasis on the High Holidays—Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur—and their associated rituals and prayers. Display cases showcase religious garments, ceremonial items, and Torah scrolls, while panels explain the cultural and spiritual meanings behind these traditions. The exhibition is as informative as it is atmospheric, blending education with reverence in a beautifully restored sacred space.
Just next door, the Ceremony Hall provides a quieter, more contemplative experience. Built in the early 20th century in Neo-Romanesque style, this building now houses a thought-provoking display on Jewish burial customs. Ancient gravestones, ritual instruments, and historical medical tools are presented with great care, telling the story of how Prague’s Jewish community honored its dead. A particularly moving section is dedicated to the activities of the Chevra Kadisha (Jewish Burial Society), illustrated through a series of delicate paintings and authentic ritual objects that reflect the society’s deep commitment to dignity, respect, and tradition in the face of death.
Why You Should Visit:
The Klausen Synagogue and Ceremony Hall together offer a well-rounded view of Jewish religious life, from joyous celebrations to solemn farewells. Their exhibits are not only rich in historical content but are also sensitively presented, making them meaningful for visitors of all backgrounds. This site is especially ideal as a starting point for exploring the Jewish Quarter, situated just steps from the cemetery and several other key monuments.
The Klausen Synagogue appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Klausen Synagogue
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Synagogue in Prague
