Posted by The Maisel Synagogue is one of the 5 synagogues in the Old Town of Prague, which can be visited as part of a combined ticket of the Jewish sights in the former Jewish quarter Josefov. It is about 100 meters away from the main attraction, the Old Jewish Cemetery.
>>> Cheap combined tickets online for Jewish Quarter Prague (4 synagogues and cemetery): Click here
Unlike many other synagogues in Prague, the Maisel Synagogue looks like a synagogue from the outside. The interior of the building also looks large and like a place of worship.
In the Maisel Synagogue there is an exhibition about the Jewish quarter Josefov. The highlight will be a multimedia presentation of the old Jewish quarter before the radical redesign of the quarter at the end of the 19th century. Old Josefov, when it was still one of the largest Jewish quarters in Europe. Visitors to the Maisel Synagogue can also enjoy other modern multimedia presentations. Touch screens provide information about famous Jewish people in the history of Josefov or old Hebrew manuscripts.
The Maisel Synagogue was built at the end of the 16th century for Mordechaj Maisel. The house has been severely damaged several times in history, including by fire, and had to be extensively renovated.
Important: Guided tours and Prague Card Jewish Quarter Josefov
Since things are quite difficult to understand, we recommend a good guide through the Jewish Josefov. You should book this in advance on the Internet (duration about 2.5 hours), as the capacities are limited. >>> Link with more information and booking
With the great Prague Card the entrance to the Jewish sights is free of charge. The Prague Card is a tourist ticket with free entry to many sights in Prague and much more. >>> On this link you can find the Prague Card and more information.
Czech Maiselova synagoga) ; English: Maisel Synagogue
>>> Cheap combined tickets online for Jewish Quarter Prague (4 synagogues and cemetery): Click here
Maisel Synagogue Prague Highlights
The architecture
Originally built in the late 16th century in Renaissance style, the synagogue was later remodeled in neo-Gothic style.
Today, the building is an example of the combination of historical and modern styles.
Historical significance
It was financed in 1592 by Mordechai Maisel, a wealthy Jewish merchant and mayor of the ghetto.
Served as one of the most important synagogues in the Jewish ghetto of Prague.
Exhibition of the Jewish Museum
The synagogue houses an impressive permanent exhibition on the history of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from the 10th to the 18th century.
Artifacts such as ritual objects, manuscripts and historical documents offer insights into Jewish life and culture.
Special focus on Mordechai Maisel
One section is dedicated to the life and achievements of Mordechai Maisel, his influence on the Jewish community and his contribution to the development of the ghetto.
Remembrance of the Jewish community
The exhibition documents the cultural, economic and religious contributions of the Jewish community as well as the challenges and persecution it faced.
Maisel Synagogue Prague Highlights
Historical significance
Built in 1592: The synagogue was erected by Mordechai Maisel, a wealthy head of the Jewish community. It originally served as a private synagogue for Maisel and his family.
Rich past: It was one of the largest and most magnificent synagogues of its time and a symbol of the prosperity of Prague’s Jews in the 16th century.
Architectural style
Original Renaissance style: The synagogue was originally built in the Renaissance style, but was altered several times over the course of time due to fires and renovations.
Neo-Gothic restoration: Its current neo-Gothic appearance dates back to the late 19th century.
Exhibition on Jewish history
Part of the Jewish Museum: The Maisel Synagogue houses a fascinating exhibition on the history of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from the 10th to the 18th century.
Precious exhibits: on display are historical manuscripts, ritual objects, Jewish literature and everyday objects documenting the life and customs of the Jewish community.
Themes: The exhibition covers topics such as everyday life, religious traditions and the legal situation of Jews in the region.
Significance for the Jewish Quarter
Center of Jewish culture: The synagogue was an important religious and social meeting place for the Jewish community in Prague.