Do you see the imposing figure carved in stone, just above the entrance to the New Town Hall? This is the Rabbi Loew Statue, a tribute to a man who stands at the heart of Prague’s Jewish history. Rabbi Loew, also known as the Maharal of Prague, was a scholar, a mystic, and a leader whose influence on the community here was profound. Rabbi Loew’s statue, created by sculptor Ladislav Šaloun, is a powerful reminder of his legacy. The inscription below the statue reads “Morenu HaRav Loew”, which translates to “Our Teacher, Rabbi Loew”, a testament to the reverence he commanded. The New Town Hall was built in 1909-1911, and it’s a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture. Ladislav Šaloun embraced local history when he sculpted this statue. In a way, Rabbi Loew epitomizes Prague’s vibrant Jewish Quarter, a place that has endured centuries of both hardship and triumph. Standing here, you can almost feel the spirit of this legendary rabbi, his wisdom, and his fight for his people. Let’s move on and explore more of the rich history of Prague’s Jewish Quarter.
Dolní Břežany
Could this grand Renaissance castle have once been a humble medieval fortress? It’s true! This is Dolní Břežany, dominated by