Maisel Synagogue
Synagogue in Prague
Nestled slightly behind the line of buildings along Maiselova Street, the Maisel Synagogue is a striking monument to the vision and generosity of one man—Mordecai Maisel. A wealthy 16th-century philanthropist and prominent figure within Prague’s Jewish community, Maisel funded the construction of this synagogue entirely from his own fortune, along with other key institutions such as the Jewish Town Hall and several community synagogues. When first completed in 1592, the Maisel Synagogue stood as the most lavish house of worship in the Jewish Quarter, celebrated for both its grandeur and for being the first local synagogue to allow female congregants.
Originally designed in the Renaissance style, the building suffered extensive damage during the Great Fire of 1689 and was subsequently reconstructed with a Baroque façade. In the late 19th century, it was transformed again—this time adopting the neo-Gothic appearance that remains today. Though the current exterior is more reserved than its original iteration, the synagogue still bears traces of its historical evolution, serving as a visual record of Prague’s shifting architectural and cultural landscape.
Today, the synagogue is no longer used for regular religious services but instead serves as part of the Jewish Museum of Prague. Its whitewashed interior hosts a permanent exhibition documenting the rich history of Jewish life in Bohemia and Moravia up until the 1781 Edict of Tolerance. Within glass cases, visitors can admire intricate gold and silver ceremonial objects, Hanukkah menorahs, Torah scrolls, and items reflecting both daily life and legal restrictions—such as replicas of yellow badges and stiff ruffs once required to be worn by unmarried Jewish men over the age of twelve.
Why You Should Visit:
The Maisel Synagogue offers not only beautiful architecture but also a sobering yet fascinating glimpse into centuries of Jewish history in the Czech lands. Many of the artifacts on display were originally confiscated and collected by the Nazis, who planned to create a macabre “museum of an extinct race.” Instead, they now serve as powerful evidence of survival and continuity. The synagogue’s elegant setting and thoughtfully curated exhibits make it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the legacy and resilience of Prague’s Jewish community.
The Maisel Synagogue appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Maisel Synagogue
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Synagogue in Prague
