9 Highlights of History and Architecture

The Great Synagogue is more than just a place of worship. It is a landmark of 19th-century engineering and art. The building combines several styles into a unique look. Here are nine specific highlights you should not miss.

1. Name: The Moorish-Romanesque Facade Type: Architecture Why go: It showcases a unique blend of Eastern and Western styles. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Main exterior Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free to view from outside Getting there: Walk from the central square Tip: Look for the Star of David near the top.
2. Name: The Twin Red-Domed Towers Type: Iconic sight Why go: These 45-meter towers dominate the local skyline. Best for: Photographers Where: Front of the building Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Visible from Smetana Park Tip: The towers were shortened during construction to respect the nearby cathedral.
3. Name: The Great Central Nave Type: Interior Why go: The scale of the interior is breathtaking. Best for: History lovers Where: Main hall Time: 30 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Enter through the main doors Tip: Check the acoustics if a concert is scheduled.
4. Name: The Ornate Torah Ark Type: Experience Why go: This is the spiritual heart of the building. Best for: Religious history Where: Eastern wall Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Walk to the front of the nave Tip: Notice the intricate carvings and gold leaf.
5. Name: The Historic Pipe Organ Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the few surviving synagogue organs in the country. Best for: Music enthusiasts Where: Rear gallery Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Look up toward the back Tip: The organ is still used for special performances.
6. Name: The Women's Gallery Type: Architecture Why go: It offers the best viewpoint of the entire hall. Best for: Viewpoints Where: Upper level Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Take the stairs from the lobby Tip: It is one of the best quiet places in Plzen for reflection.
7. Name: The Holocaust Memorial Exhibition Type: History Why go: It honors the local Jewish community lost during WWII. Best for: Educational visit Where: Side galleries Time: 45 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Follow the signs inside Tip: Give yourself time to read the personal stories.
8. Name: The Stained Glass Windows Type: Interior Why go: The colorful glass creates a beautiful light inside. Best for: Art lovers Where: Throughout the hall Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in entry Getting there: Best seen on a sunny day Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light.
9. Name: The Old Synagogue Type: Nearby sight Why go: It is a smaller, hidden gem nearby. Best for: History buffs Where: Smetana Park area Time: 30 minutes Cost: Separate or joint ticket Getting there: 5-minute walk from the Great Synagogue Tip: Look for the "Garden of Memories" in its courtyard.

Planning Your Visit to the Great Synagogue

Visiting this site requires some basic planning. The synagogue is usually open from April through October. It often closes on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Always check the official calendar before you arrive. You can find more travel tips at Visit Czechia.

Tickets are available at the entrance desk. Prices are usually very affordable for international travelers. Expect to pay a small fee for photography. Guided tours are often available in English. These tours provide deeper insight into the history and architecture of Great Synagogue Plzeň.

The area around the synagogue is quite busy. It sits on a major road near the city center. However, the interior remains peaceful and cool. It is a great place to escape the summer heat. Wear modest clothing as a sign of respect. Men may be asked to cover their heads in certain areas.