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Josefov: Prague's Historic Jewish Quarter

Explore Josefov, Prague's Jewish Quarter: a historic neighborhood with synagogues, a cemetery, and the Jewish Museum, reflecting centuries of Jewish heritage.

Josefov, Prague's Jewish Quarter, is a historic neighborhood nestled between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River. Once a Jewish ghetto, it's now a vibrant district with well-preserved synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum, bearing witness to centuries of Jewish life in Prague.

A brief summary to Josefov

  • Old Town, Prague 1, CZ

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues at the Jewish Museum and its associated sites.
  • Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of Josefov's landmarks.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery; men should wear a head covering.
  • Allow ample time to explore the Jewish Museum's various sites, as each offers a unique perspective on Jewish history and culture.
  • Visit during the cooler months (April-June or September-November) to avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Josefov is located a short walk from Prague's Old Town Square. From the square, head north on Pařížská Street, and you'll soon find yourself in the heart of the Jewish Quarter. The area is easily walkable, with most major sites within close proximity of each other.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Josefov by public transport, take the Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the Jewish Quarter. Alternatively, tram lines 17 and 93 stop at Právnická fakulta, which is also a short walk away. A single 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, while a 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK. A 24-hour pass is available for 120 CZK.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Prague, and a ride to Josefov from the city center will be relatively short and inexpensive. The base fare is 60 CZK, and the price per kilometer is 36 CZK. A short trip within the city center should cost around 150-200 CZK. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Josefov

Josefov, also known as Prague's Jewish Quarter, is a captivating area steeped in history and culture. Located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River, it's a poignant reminder of the Jewish community's trials and triumphs in Prague. Established in the Middle Ages, Josefov was once a Jewish ghetto, where Jewish people were compelled to reside. Over the centuries, despite facing persecution and pogroms, the community persevered, leaving behind a rich legacy of synagogues, a remarkable cemetery, and a unique cultural identity. The name Josefov is a tribute to Joseph II, a ruler who enacted reforms that improved the lives of Jewish people in the Czech lands. Today, Josefov is home to six synagogues, including the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe. Visitors can explore the Spanish Synagogue, known for its Moorish architecture, and the Pinkas Synagogue, which serves as a memorial to Holocaust victims. The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its thousands of tombstones, is a testament to the community's enduring presence. The Jewish Museum, spread across several sites, offers a comprehensive look at Jewish history and culture in Prague. While exploring Josefov, visitors can wander the streets, admire the architecture, and delve into the stories of the people who once called this quarter home. From the legend of the Golem to the legacy of Franz Kafka, Josefov is a place where history, culture, and mystery intertwine.

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