Exploring the History of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague

The Spanish Synagogue was built in 1868. It features a unique style inspired by the Alhambra in Spain. The interior is covered in intricate gold leaf and colorful patterns. It serves as a museum and a venue for classical music. Most visitors spend about an hour inside this specific building. It is widely considered one of the best things to do in Prague for history lovers.

1. Name: Spanish Synagogue Interior Type: sight Why go: See the most beautiful synagogue interior in Europe. The gold stucco work is breathtaking. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Vězeňská 1, Josefov Time: 45 minutes Cost: Included in Jewish Museum pass Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square Tip: Look up at the central dome for the best photo angle.
2. Name: History of the Jews Exhibit Type: museum Why go: Learn about the history of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague and local Jewish life. The exhibit covers the 18th to 20th centuries. Best for: History buffs Where: Main floor of the synagogue Time: 30 minutes Cost: Part of the museum ticket Getting there: Located inside the synagogue Tip: Read the panels about the 19th-century Reform movement.
3. Name: The Franz Kafka Monument Type: sight Why go: This bronze statue by Jaroslav Róna is iconic. It stands just outside the synagogue entrance. Best for: Literature lovers Where: Dušní Street Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Directly outside the synagogue Tip: Rub the statue's foot for good luck.
4. Name: The Synagogue Organ Loft Type: sight Why go: The synagogue was a center for Reform Judaism. The organ represents this modern shift in tradition. Best for: Music enthusiasts Where: Upper gallery Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Use the stairs near the entrance Tip: The view of the nave from here is spectacular.
5. Name: The Silver Treasury Type: museum Why go: See over 6,000 silver items from Bohemian and Moravian synagogues. It is one of the world's largest collections. Best for: Art lovers Where: Upper floor gallery Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Accessible via the synagogue stairs Tip: Notice the intricate detail on the Torah shields.
6. Name: Evening Chamber Concerts Type: experience Why go: Experience the acoustics of the synagogue at night. They often play Vivaldi or Smetana. Best for: Couples Where: Main hall Time: 1 hour Cost: Additional ticket required Getting there: Arrive 15 minutes before the start Tip: Book tickets in advance during the summer season.
7. Name: The Old Jewish Cemetery Type: sight Why go: Visit one of the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the world. It is a short walk from the synagogue. Best for: Photographers Where: Široká Street Time: 45 minutes Cost: Part of the museum ticket Getting there: 5-minute walk from the Spanish Synagogue Tip: Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery early to avoid large crowds.
8. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Memorial Type: sight Why go: See the names of 80,000 Holocaust victims inscribed on the walls. It is a very moving experience. Best for: Remembrance Where: Near the cemetery entrance Time: 30 minutes Cost: Included in museum pass Getting there: Walk through the Jewish Quarter Tip: Visit the children's drawings exhibit upstairs.
9. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: sight Why go: Explore the earlier history of Jews in Bohemia. It features many rare artifacts and interactive screens. Best for: Families Where: Maiselova Street Time: 30 minutes Cost: Included in museum pass Getting there: 3-minute walk from the Spanish Synagogue Tip: Use the digital touchscreens for a deeper dive.
10. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: museum Why go: This gallery features temporary exhibitions of Jewish art. It is named after a famous Prague painter. Best for: Art fans Where: U Staré školy 3 Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in museum pass Getting there: Behind the Spanish Synagogue Tip: Check the current exhibition schedule online.

Planning Your Jewish Quarter Josefov Sightseeing

Visiting the Jewish Quarter requires some planning. Most sites are managed by the Jewish Museum in Prague. You can choose from different ticket options depending on your interests. The Spanish Synagogue is often the busiest site. We recommend starting your tour here as soon as it opens.

The area is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site. Please remember that these are active places of remembrance. Dress modestly and keep your voice low. Men may be asked to wear a head covering in certain areas. You can find more visitor information on the official Prague.eu portal.

The Jewish Quarter is very walkable. You do not need a car to see these sites. Most attractions are within a few minutes of each other. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestone. Many visitors combine this tour with a visit to the nearby Old Town Square.