Great Synagogue: A Plzeň Landmark

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Discover Plzeň's Great Synagogue: A majestic landmark blending Moorish and Romanesque styles, rich in history and cultural significance.

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Great Synagogue

The Great Synagogue in Plzeň, Czech Republic, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the largest synagogues in Europe. Built in Moorish-Romanesque style, it stands as a testament to the city's rich Jewish history and cultural diversity.

A brief summary to Great Synagogue

Sady Pětatřicátníků 35/11, Pilsen 3, 301 37, CZ
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Great Synagogue.

Check the official website for current opening hours and event schedules, as they may vary.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the synagogue's history and architecture.
Note that the synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays.
Take a moment to view the sculpture "Šlépěje" (footprints) on the steps in front of the building, commemorating the Jewish population's transport to Nazi extermination camps.

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Getting There

Walking

The Great Synagogue is located in the city center of Plzeň, specifically on Sady Pětatřicátníků street, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the main square (Náměstí Republiky), walk east along Sady Pětatřicátníků. The Synagogue will be on your right-hand side within a few minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Plzeň's public transport system includes trams, trolleybuses, and buses. Several lines stop near the Great Synagogue at the 'Sady Pětatřicátníků' stop. Tram lines 1, 2, and 4, as well as trolleybus and bus lines 20, 27, 28, 34, 41, and 56 all service this stop. A single 30-minute ticket costs 24 CZK, a 1-hour ticket costs 28 CZK, and a 3-hour ticket costs 50 CZK. Tickets can be purchased via contactless card directly on the vehicle.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Plzeň. A short taxi ride from the main train station or city center to the Great Synagogue will typically cost between 100-150 CZK, depending on traffic and the taxi company. Ride-sharing services may also be available.

Discover more about Great Synagogue

Plzeň's Great Synagogue, also known as Velká synagoga, is a significant cultural and historical landmark, reflecting the vibrant history of the Jewish community in the Czech Republic. It is considered the second-largest synagogue in Europe and the third-largest in the world.Construction of the synagogue began in 1888 and was completed in 1893. The initial design, by Viennese architect Max Fleischer, was envisioned in a Gothic style with towering 65-meter twin towers. However, the city council rejected this plan, fearing the synagogue would overshadow the nearby Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. Emanuel Klotz then created a new design, blending Moorish-Romanesque styles with oriental elements. The towers were shortened to 45 meters.During World War II, the synagogue served as a warehouse for confiscated Jewish property and later as a workshop for German soldiers' uniforms, which spared it from destruction. After the war, the Jewish community reclaimed the synagogue, but due to the dwindling number of congregants, regular services ceased in 1973. The synagogue fell into disrepair under communist rule but was restored in the 1990s and again between 2019 and 2022.Today, the Great Synagogue hosts occasional religious services and serves as a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events. Its unique architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-see attraction in Plzeň.