Spanish Synagogue, Prague
Synagogue in Prague
Amid Prague’s architectural splendor, the Spanish Synagogue stands out as one of the city’s most breathtaking buildings and a must-see highlight of the Jewish Quarter. Erected in 1868 on the site of the oldest Jewish house of worship in Prague, the synagogue was designed by architect Vojtěch Ignác Ullmann in the popular Moorish Revival style of the time. With its tripartite façade and twin onion-domed towers, the structure evokes a strong visual connection to the Leopoldstädter Tempel of Vienna. Though it has never served a Spanish-speaking congregation, the name “Spanish Synagogue” was inspired by its Andalusian-Moorish aesthetic, echoing the golden age of Sephardic Judaism in medieval Spain.
Step inside, and the true magic of the Spanish Synagogue reveals itself. Every surface, from the arches to the gallery railings, is adorned with intricate Islamic-style arabesques—painted, carved, or gilded in deep jewel tones. The sanctuary is richly decorated, with a beautifully restored ark and bimah (pulpit), a grand chandelier shaped like the Magen David, and a gilded dome that casts a warm, golden glow throughout the space. It’s a space that overwhelms with beauty, blending Jewish symbolism and Moorish artistry in a harmonious, spellbinding atmosphere.
Despite suffering years of neglect during Nazi occupation and under Communist rule, the synagogue survived and underwent meticulous restoration before reopening in 1998 as part of the Jewish Museum of Prague. Today, it functions both as a museum and a venue for classical concerts, where the building’s exceptional acoustics and striking décor elevate each performance. Adjacent to the synagogue is the Robert Guttmann Gallery, named after a famed local Jewish artist, which hosts rotating exhibitions exploring Jewish art, culture, and history.
Why You Should Visit:
The Spanish Synagogue is arguably the most stunning and distinctive synagogue in Prague, offering a rich blend of history, architecture, and spiritual ambiance. Its elaborate design sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through the Jewish Quarter. After your visit, take a short stroll to one of the nearby cafés or bakeries for a sweet treat—this area is as rich in culture as it is in charm.
The Spanish Synagogue, Prague appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Spanish Synagogue, Prague
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Historic Building in Prague
