Seven centuries of whispered prayers. That’s the legacy held within these very walls the Old-New Synagogue. Right here before you stands Europe’s oldest active synagogue. Imagine the countless souls who have sought solace within its hallowed halls.
The Old-New Synagogue is more than just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish community in Prague. Completed in 1270 it is also the oldest surviving medieval synagogue of twin-nave design. It’s a remarkable example of early Gothic architecture. One of the first Gothic buildings in Prague.
Legend paints a mystical picture. Angels supposedly carried stones from the Temple in Jerusalem to build this synagogue. Their condition was that the stones would be returned when the Messiah arrives to rebuild the Temple. This Old-New Synagogue bears witness to history’s tumultuous events. It survived the 1389 pogroms when thousands sought shelter within. It weathered the devastating fire of 1689. Even Nazi occupation couldn’t erase its presence.
Step inside and notice the details. Nine steps lead to a vestibule. Then you enter a double nave with six vaulted bays. The design likely borrowed from monasteries and chapels. The twelve vines and twelve bunches of grapes on the tympanum represent the twelve tribes of Israel. The twelve narrow Gothic windows were once seen as dim. Now bright electric chandeliers illuminate the interior. The unusual five ribs in the vaulting may have been an attempt to avoid the Christian cross symbol.
The bimah where Torah scrolls are read sits between two pillars. The twelve-vine motif reappears on the bimah’s base. The Aron Kodesh the ark where Torah scrolls are stored is on the eastern wall. Five steps lead to it. Above are two round stained glass windows. The lectern has a small well for the service leader. The twelve lancet windows once led people to compare the building to Solomon’s Temple.
Even today the Old-New Synagogue remains a vibrant house of worship. Separate seating for men and women reflects Orthodox custom. A striking feature is a large red flag near the west pillar. It has a Star of David and a Jewish hat stitched in gold. The text of Shema Yisrael is also stitched in gold. This flag is a reproduction of one awarded to the Jewish community for defending Prague during the Thirty Years War.
Many believe the Golem of Prague lies in the attic above. A creature of clay brought to life by Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel to protect the Jewish community. The attic remains largely unexplored adding to the mystery.
The Old-New Synagogue’s story is one of resilience faith and enduring hope. A place where history whispers secrets and prayers echo through time. A building that has seen centuries pass but remains a powerful symbol of Jewish heritage in Prague.