Old New Synagogue

Staronová synagoga

The oldest active synagogue in Europe, built in the 13th century and featuring remarkable Gothic architecture and historic interior elements including the Rabbi's pulpit and Torah. This deeply sacred Jewish landmark offers visitors a direct connection to centuries of Prague's Jewish spiritual tradition.

Things to do

• Guided Interior Tour — Explore the 13th-century Gothic interior with an expert guide who explains the synagogue's architecture, the elevated Rabbi's pulpit (bimah), and the Torah ark.
• Observe the Attic Space — Visit the historic attic where Prague's Jewish community allegedly hid during pogroms, now preserved as a testament to survival and resilience.
• Prague Jewish Museum Visit — Located nearby in the Jewish Quarter, this museum holds artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits that contextualize the Old New Synagogue's role in Jewish history.
• Evening Sabbath Service — Experience a traditional Friday evening Shabbat service (when permitted) to witness living Jewish practice in Europe's oldest active synagogue.
• Jewish Quarter Walking Tour — Explore surrounding historic streets, cemeteries, and memorials that form the context of the Old New Synagogue within Prague's preserved Jewish Quarter.

Food to try

• Challah Bread — Seek out traditional braided challah at nearby bakeries in the Jewish Quarter, a ceremonial bread central to Shabbat and Jewish celebrations.
• Matzo Ball Soup — Look for this classic Jewish comfort dish at local kosher restaurants in Prague's Jewish Quarter, featuring light broth and tender dumplings.
• Herring Plates — Sample traditional prepared herring in various styles (pickled, mustard sauce) common to Central European Jewish cuisine at Old Town establishments.
• Gefilte Fish — Try this poached fish mixture, a traditional Jewish dish served at kosher restaurants near the synagogue and during Jewish holiday seasons.
• Czech-Jewish Fusion Pastries — Enjoy local bakery items like poppy-seed strudel and honey cake that blend Czech and Jewish culinary traditions found in the Old Town.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Respect — Wear modest clothing and remove your shoes or wear shoe covers inside the synagogue; men may be required to wear a head covering (kippa) provided at the entrance.
• Photography Restrictions — Photography is typically prohibited inside the synagogue to respect its sacred status and the solemnity of worship; always ask staff before taking any images.
• Guided Tours Essential — The synagogue is best experienced with an official guide who provides historical context about the 13th-century construction, Nazi occupation, and post-war restoration.
• Visit During Daylight Hours — Plan your visit for daytime when the sanctuary's Gothic architecture and historic details are fully visible and tours are regularly scheduled.

Nearby

• Prague Jewish Quarter — 0 km
• Prague Center (Old Town and New Town) — 1 km
• Prague Old Town — 1 km
• Old Town Square — 1 km