Explore the Rich Heritage of the Prague Jewish Quarter
Discover the profound history and cultural richness of the Prague Jewish Quarter, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Prague.
A brief summary to Prague Jewish Quarter
- U Staré školy, Old Town, 110 00, CZ
- Visit website
The Prague Jewish Quarter, or Josefov, is a historical gem nestled within the heart of the city, exemplifying the rich tapestry of Jewish culture and history in the Czech Republic. This fascinating area is home to an array of significant sites, including the stunning Spanish Synagogue, renowned for its Moorish Revival architecture and intricate interior designs. Visitors can also explore the Old-New Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in Europe, which has been a spiritual home for the Jewish community for centuries. The quarter is also home to the Jewish Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Jewish artifacts and offers insights into the history of Jews in Prague. A visit to the haunting Old Jewish Cemetery, where thousands of graves are layered over one another, provides a poignant reminder of the community's past. The cemetery's unique tombstones reflect a blend of artistic styles and serve as a testament to the lives that were once lived in this vibrant community. As you wander through the narrow, cobblestoned streets, you'll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a taste of local cuisine and culture. The atmosphere is imbued with a sense of history and reverence, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Jewish heritage in Europe. With its blend of historical significance and cultural richness, the Prague Jewish Quarter is an essential stop for any traveler seeking to delve deeper into the city's diverse history.
Local tips
- Purchase a combined ticket for the Jewish Museum to save on entry to multiple sites.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider joining a guided tour for insightful historical context and stories.
- Dress respectfully when visiting synagogues and cemeteries.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in Josefov, the Jewish Quarter is easily accessible on foot. Start at the Old Jewish Cemetery located at U Staré školy, 110 00 Staré Město. Exit the cemetery and head towards the Jewish Museum, which is also in the area. Simply follow the signs that point towards the Jewish Museum and the synagogues. The area is compact, so you can expect to reach most attractions within a 10-15 minute walk.
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Public Transport
While the Jewish Quarter is best explored on foot, if you are coming from another part of Prague, you can take tram number 17 or 24 to the 'Staroměstská' stop. Once you exit the tram, walk towards the Vltava River, then follow the signs for the Jewish Quarter. The walk from the tram stop to the entrance of the Jewish Quarter should take about 5 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Prague Jewish Quarter
- Pařížská ulice
- The Old-New Synagogue
- High Synagogue
- Reliéf (na domě Pařížská 207/25)
- Galerie Roberta Guttmanna - Robert Guttmann Gallery
- Jewish Town Hall
- Statue of Franz Kafka
- Spanish Synagogue
- Nadační Fond Obětem Holocaustu
- Jewish Museum in Prague
- Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl & Boat Party
- Kostel svatého Šimona a Judy
- Klausen Synagogue
- The Ceremonial Hall
- 儀式の家
Landmarks nearby to Prague Jewish Quarter
- Fairmont Golden Prague hotel
- Verneus
- National Gallery Prague - Convent of St. Agnes
- Josef Manes monument
- Jan Hus monument
- The smallest house in Prague
- Old Town Square
- Kuřácká Zeď
- House at the Golden Ring
- Idiom Installation
- Boat Moravia
- Prague Meridian
- boeken museum
- Mariánský sloup
- Memorial plaque to the victims of the 1945 Prague Uprising