Quick Decision Guide for Prague Synagogues

If you have limited time in Prague, choosing one site is hard. Both synagogues are essential parts of the Jewish Quarter Josefov heritage sites. However, they offer very different visual experiences. Use these quick rules to help you decide.

• Pick the Spanish Synagogue if you love gold, intricate patterns, and bright colors.
• Pick the Old-New Synagogue if you prefer medieval history and ancient stone structures.
• Pick the Spanish Synagogue if you want to see a modern museum exhibit.
• Pick the Old-New Synagogue if you want to visit the oldest active synagogue in Europe.

Most travelers visit both as part of a larger tour. The Spanish Synagogue is usually included in the main Jewish Museum ticket. The Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or combined ticket. Plan for about 45 minutes at each location to see the details.

The Moorish Beauty of the Spanish Synagogue

The Spanish Synagogue is a masterpiece of the 19th century. It sits on the site of the oldest Jewish house of prayer in Prague. The current building dates back to 1868. Architects designed it in the Moorish Revival style. This style mimics the famous Alhambra palace in Spain.

Inside, the walls are covered in gold leaf and colorful geometric patterns. You will see beautiful stained glass windows that filter the light. The dome is particularly impressive with its detailed carvings. This building is often considered the most beautiful synagogue in Europe. It represents the wealth and optimism of the Jewish community in the 1800s.

Today, the building serves as a museum and a concert hall. You can learn about the history of Jews in the Czech lands here. Many people visit in the evening for classical music concerts. The acoustics are excellent due to the high ceilings and dome. For more information, visit the Spanish Synagogue official site for current events.

The Gothic Strength of the Old-New Synagogue

The Old-New Synagogue is a landmark of medieval architecture. It was completed around 1270. This makes it the oldest active synagogue in Europe. The building features a high saddle roof and thick stone walls. It has survived fires, floods, and urban renewal for centuries.

The interior is simple and solemn compared to the Spanish Synagogue. You will see a unique five-ribbed vaulting system. This design was used to avoid the shape of a Christian cross. The stone carvings around the shrine are very delicate. It feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages.

Legends say the Golem of Prague rests in the attic of this building. This story adds a layer of mystery to the site. The synagogue is still used for religious services today. Because of this, it has a very spiritual atmosphere. It is one of the most important cultural attractions in Prague for history lovers.

Spanish Synagogue vs Old-New Synagogue Architecture Compared

When comparing Spanish Synagogue vs Old-New Synagogue architecture, the contrast is sharp. The Spanish Synagogue is bright, decorative, and relatively modern. The Old-New Synagogue is dark, heavy, and ancient. One celebrates the 19th-century arts, while the other showcases 13th-century engineering. Both are vital to understanding the city's heritage.

The Spanish Synagogue is part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. You can find more about the Jewish Museum in Prague entrance fees and tickets online. The Old-New Synagogue is managed by the Jewish Community of Prague. Most visitors buy a combined ticket to see both areas. This allows you to compare the styles in person on the same day.

Walking between them takes only five minutes. This walk takes you through the heart of the Josefov district. You will pass many other sites, including the history of the Old Jewish Cemetery in Prague. Seeing both buildings helps you realize how much the community changed over 600 years. The transition from Gothic stone to Moorish gold is truly remarkable.