Discover the Old Synagogue: A Jewel of Jewish Heritage in Kraków
Explore the Old Synagogue in Kraków - a historic museum celebrating Jewish culture and heritage in Poland's vibrant Jewish Quarter.
A brief summary to Old Synagogue
- Szeroka 24, Kraków, Stare Miasto, 31-053, PL
- +48124220962
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
The Old Synagogue, located in the heart of Kraków's Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, is one of the oldest synagogues in Poland, dating back to the 15th century. This magnificent structure serves as a museum and a historical testament to the rich Jewish heritage of the city. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, with a Baroque interior that features intricate details and a unique wooden ceiling. The synagogue houses a museum that showcases a variety of artifacts, including traditional religious items, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Jewish life in Kraków over the centuries. As you walk through the exhibits, you will gain insights into the cultural, spiritual, and social aspects of the Jewish community, including their contributions to the city and the challenges they faced throughout history. The Old Synagogue also serves as a venue for cultural events, lectures, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant part of Kraków's contemporary cultural scene. A visit to this historic site provides a deeper understanding of the city’s past and the resilience of its Jewish community. Additionally, the surrounding Kazimierz district is rich in history and culture, with charming cafes, galleries, and shops that complement your visit to the synagogue. Many tourists find it rewarding to explore the area further, sampling local cuisine and experiencing the unique blend of old and new that defines this vibrant neighborhood. The Old Synagogue is an essential stop on any travel itinerary for those wishing to appreciate the profound historical narratives that shape Kraków today.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Combine your visit with a walking tour of the Kazimierz district to fully appreciate its history.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main square in Kazimierz (Plac Nowy), head southeast on ul. Nowa towards ul. Szeroka. After about a 10-minute walk, you will reach Szeroka street. Turn left onto Szeroka, and you will find the Old Synagogue at number 24. It’s a short walk, and the area is pedestrian-friendly.
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Public Transport - Tram
If you are near a tram stop, board tram number 8 or 13 at the nearest tram station (e.g., 'Kraków Główny' or 'Pl. Wolnica'). Travel for about 5 minutes and get off at the 'Stradom' stop. From there, it’s a 7-minute walk. Head east on ul. Stradomska, then turn left onto ul. Szeroka, where you will find the Old Synagogue at number 24. Remember that tram tickets cost around 4 PLN for a single journey.
Attractions Nearby to Old Synagogue
- Jewish Square
- Kazimierz Food Square
- High Synagogue
- Popper Synagogue
- Drehort Schindler's Liste - Ghetto Szenen
- Galicia Jewish Museum
- Drehort Schindlers Liste
- Yehuda mural
- The Nissenbaum Foundation Memorial
- Synagoga Izaaka Jakubowicza
- Remuh Synagogue
- Kazimierz Historical Mural
- Remah Cemetery
- Jan Karski Monument
- Klezmer-Hois
Landmarks nearby to Old Synagogue
- Krakow-Zwiedzanie.pl
- Father Bernatek’s Bridge
- Kraków Pinball Museum
- Tablica pamiątkowa ks Władysław Gurgacz
- Jewish Ghetto Memorial
- Zabytkowy Budynek
- Podgórze Market Square
- Średniowieczne mury obronne miasta Kazimierz
- Well of St. Stanislaus
- Tablica pamiątkowa ofiar NKWD
- Krypta Zasłużonych na Skałce
- Reprezentacyjne Komnaty Królewskie
- St. Andrew's Church, Kraków
- Saints Peter and Paul Church
- Pałac Prasy