This article will show you how to tour Prague’s Jewish Quarter independently.
Certain places leave a lasting impression on your mind. Seems like that happens even if the place wasn’t in your conscience before visiting.
While in Prague, I took a 3-hour walking tour of the city’s Old Town. The tour included an explanation of the sites contained within the Jewish Quarter. I am not sure if it was the guide’s fervent descriptions or the heartbreaking facts but I felt like every word penetrated deep inside. I understood I was not visiting an ordinary place.
That is why I decided to write an entire article highlighting the stories of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. If you have plans of visiting the city, I hope this guide inspires you to visit this unique area.
Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course, this comes at no extra cost to you and helps me to keep offering solid information to readers.
Table of Contents
Context
Before diving into what visitors can do and see in the Jewish Quarter, it is important to have some understanding of how the area was established and what vicissitudes it went through the years.
But, first, what is the big deal with Prague’s Jewish Quarter or Ghetto? Well, we are talking about the best-preserved complex of historical Jews monuments in Europe.
Most Jewish communities were destroyed due to persecution and oppression of its inhabitants. The final blow came when the Nazis occupied major cities in the European continent. Important parts of Prague’s Ghetto survive to this day because of a very sad reason. Hitler wanted to convert the area into the “Museum of an Extinct Race.” Even artifacts taken from other countries were moved to Prague for that purpose.
Historians believe Jews started to move to Prague around the 10th century. Violence and persecution towards the members of the group pushed them into a walled, confined community. They were not allowed to move freely.
Repression continued for several centuries until a rich member of the community, Mordechai Maisel, was elected leader or mayor of the Quarter. Eventually, he was named Minister of Finance and used his position, and money, to improve the living conditions of the Ghetto. He was allowed to operate in this way since he helped to finance some of the Emperor’s battles against the Turks.
The “Golden Age” of the Quarter lasted till Empress Marie-Therese expelled the Jews from Prague in 1745. Things improved when Emperor Joseph II (Marie-Therese’s son) allowed Jews to go back to Prague and settle outside the Ghetto. That is why the Quarter is known as Josefov (Joseph’s City).
The Ghetto was liberated from Nazi occupation in 1945. Since that, the Quarter has evolved into a vivacious and elegant neighborhood.
The Golem
I cannot talk about this area of Prague without mentioning the Golem. According to history (or legend), Rabbi Judah Loew took clay from the banks of the Vltava River, created a creature, and gave it life using magic (or a magic stone or rituals). The Golem was commanded to protect the Ghetto from attacks.
The Golem was fulfilling its purpose until it became unstable and started to destroy the city. The Emperor asked the Rabbi to deactivate the Golem in exchange for “peace for the Jews.” The Rabbi followed instructions and persecution ceased. In reality, the persecution probably diminished because of the money the Jews were providing to the Empire. The Golem was stored in the attic of the Old New Synagogue in case it was needed again.
Of course, there are many versions of the story. Our guide explained that maybe a small Golem was indeed created. Then, it was placed close to the fire or bright light. This would create a big shadow and people outside the Ghetto would believe a spirit was protecting the place.
You can see reproductions of the Golem (for sale as souvenirs) in some spots of the Quarter.
Sights at the Jewish Quarter Prague
Pinkas Synagogue
Prague’s second oldest surviving Synagogue is impressive since it has inscribed the name of about 80,000 Jews that died in concentration camps during WWII.
In addition, it presents a moving exhibition of paintings and drawing made by kids held prisoners at the Terezin Concentration Camp (located not that far from Prague)
Klausen Synagogue
This Synagogue has an exhibition of Jewish customs and traditions.
Old Jewish Cemetery
The Old Cemetery was the only place where Jews were allowed to bury their dead. If you visit, you are going to notice the space is not that extensive at all. Because of the situation, they buried bodies in layers. Once a layer was full, they added dirt and buried more bodies. This practice continued for 350 years and it is estimated 100,000 bodies found final rest on the spot. During a visit, you are going to notice how high is the current top of the street level.
Rabbi Loew and Mordechai Maisel are buried in the cemetery.
Photo by Jorge Royan
Ceremonial Hall
This is the place where cemetery related ceremonies used to take place. The building is renowned for its peculiar architecture of aged stones and terracotta tiled roof.
Old New Synagogue
The name of this Synagogue may sound confusing so, let me explain. This is the oldest Synagogue in Europe. However, when it was built, it was the newcomer of the Quarter. People started to call it the New Synagogue. With time, other Synagogues were built. Residents added the “Old” adjective to the New Synagogue name to differentiate it from others in the area.
According to legend, this is where the Golem was stored.
Jewish Town Hall
This beautiful building was erected by Mayor Maisel. It is well-known because of its two clocks. One uses Roman characters while the other one uses Hebrew characters.
Maisel Synagogue
As previously stated, Mayor Maisel was a wealthy man. Because of that, he was able to build a private Synagogue to worship with his family. He went all and about and covered the interior with gold and silver. Nobody knows what happened with the Synagogue’s treasures.
Spanish Synagogue
This is the Quarter’s more lavishly decorated Synagogue. Because of its Moorish style, it was called the Spanish Synagogue (since the Moors ruled most of Spain for a thousand years).
Photo by Mendhak
Photo by Thomas Ledl
Other Sights at Prague Jewish Quarter
Rudolfinum
The National Theather houses the Czech Philharmonic. Even though it serves as a concert hall, it has spaces for rent and an art gallery. The plaza in front of it is called Jan Palach Square.
Holy Ghost Church
This church located at the edge of the Jewish Quarter was constructed to establish the community borders. During a period, Jews were forced to attend mass here every Sunday. Nowadays, its presence reminds us of how diverse the city has become.
Frank Kafka Statue
Frank Kafka, a famous writer, was born in the area. The statue of a small Kafta sitting over a larger, headless body was inspired by one of his early stories. Other say the statue reveals a bit of Kafta’s childhood since he grew up with an abusive father.
Parizska Street
Believe it or not, Prague’s answer to the Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive is located in the Jewish Quarter. Parizska Street is full of stores such as Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Bottega Veneta. According to our guide, the luxury stores cater to rich residents who have businesses in Central Prague and live outside the city.
Beautiful Architecture
While walking around, you are going to notice the many stately buildings dating from the beginning of the 20th century. A lot of the Quarter was destroyed since the government wanted to rebuild in a style similar to Paris.
Because of that, we lost most of the old architecture of the area. On the positive side, we ended with glamorous buildings all over town.
How to Visit the Synagogues – Prague Jewish Museum
- The monuments detailed in here are part of the Jewish Museum. This institution administers the Synagogues, Ceremonial Hall and Cemetery. A single ticket will get you entry to most sites.
- Also, you can hire a guide take you through the sites and give you historical/folkloric details.
- Keep in mind these places are closed on Saturday in observance of the Sabbath.
Sandemans Tours
- I learned a lot about this part of town thanks to a free walking tour. Those are an excellent option for those looking to learn about history and architecture
- For a free walking tour of Old Prague, you can use a company like Sandemans. They have excellent ratings and I found their guides engaging and knowledgeable
- They offer daily free tours of Old Town Prague (including the Jewish Quarter). These tours do not go inside any of the monuments shown in this post. Please, present an appropriate tip at the end
Details
- The sights in the Jewish Quarter are located close to each other. Therefore, the walking distance can be estimated at 1 or 2 miles
- Exploring the area can take you 2 to 4 hours
- For more of Old Town, check my post about the beautiful sights located around the Old Town Square
More Resources
- Find more about the city at the Prague City Tourism website
- Plan to see more of Czechia (Czech Republic) with the help of the country’s official tourism site
Sightseeing Gear
Get ready for a day of sightseeing by bringing the right gear. Here is a list of the items I pack to explore cities and towns in Europe.
- Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must. I recommend investing in a good pair. My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers.
- Anti-Theft Bag – Keep your belongings safe by keeping them in an anti-theft bag. The ones manufactured by Travelon have a 5-points security system including an RFID blocking pocket. >>Check out their crossbody bag here If you prefer a backpack, this one is a good option
- Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see a great option here
- Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
- Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
- Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
- Hand Sanitizer – Do not forget to pack hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.
- Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
- Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options here
- THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours. >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
- Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
- Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
- Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on trips (more if you are taking pictures, posting on social media, and navigating). Having a power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here
Visit Other European Capitals
Would you like to visit the Jewish Quarter in Prague?
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Photo Cache says
The architecture is simply fascinating.
Lorelle says
Wow, so much history Ruth. The synagogues are so elaborate. Just beautiful. 🙂
Carol says
A beautiful post, love the unique buidlings and the wonderful details
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Fascinating.
Thanks so much for this lovely and informative post. So glad you stopped by to share.
Lady Fi says
So utterly gorgeous!
Clem says
I like how this gives you a true taste of Jewish culture (at least, part of it.). I didn’t know they had a Jewish Quarter in Prague, that’s great! Thanks for sharing this.
Rajesh says
Very exciting walking tour of the place. I like that sculpture of the solider.
Kat says
Excellent post, Ruth! I think the reason why you were able to remember so vividly from the tour was the combination of the actual historical events and the guide. For walking tours, only the guide can “make or break” the experience 🙂 I’m really intrigued now by the Jewish quarter in Prague, would definitely sign up for the walking tour and explore the museums and synagogues when I travel to Prague. #citytripping
Cathy (Mummytravels) says
Such a beautiful area of Prague and some of its most fascinating history. It sounds like you found a great tour to introduce you as well which is ideal. A sobering thought of how many cities might have had similar treasures if not for centuries of persecution and the horror of Nazism. Thanks for linking up with #citytripping
Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says
very interesting tour #citytripping
Sara says
The Synagogues of Prague are incredible. Each has such a different feel. The detail in the Spanish Synagogue left me awestruck. I had not ever seen anything like it, and even when I look back at my pictures, I can’t believe that it’s real. I would like to do a more in-depth tour of the area, so I’ll keep this in mind! We only did a cursory tour of it on our first trip to Prague.
Esther says
I visited Prague for the 2nd time last summer and immediately went back to the Jewish quarter, it’s such an amazing place! The old cemetery is just mind blowing!
#WanderfulWednesday
hilary says
I’ve always wanted to visit Prague. My husband says its one of the most beautiful cities he’s ever visited, so I know I’ll get there one day. When I do, I’m absolutely visiting this very important part of the city. Thank you for sharing. #citytripping
jill says
What an interesting tour! I’ve not been to Prague but I would definitely like to see this part of the city.
Upeksha says
I’ve been to Prague a couple of times, but not really explored the Jewish Quarter. But we are going to Prague again in a couple of weeks, so your article is very timely. I’ll be pinning it for later!. Thank you for sharing. #farawayfiles
Katy says
Brilliant post full of all the historical details and context I love. The Jewish Quarter had the biggest impression on me when I visited Prague. In particular, the museum of children’s drawings at the Old Jewish Cemetery left me so emotional. I would love to take this tour next time I am in Prague. Thanks for sharing on #farawayfiles
jesh stg says
What a beautiful neighborhood. And as always you captured many gorgeous details!
You touched in this post onto a peculiar situation in Europe. Most capitals have a a Jewish Quarter (in Amsterdam it is the Jordaan (Jordan) where Jews lived, and had their synagogue, It looks like in the USA they have synagogues, but it’s not in a specific Jewish Quarter. I guess America was also for the Jews a free (from oppression) land! Beautiful post, Ruth!
Sharon says
Stunning photos, Ruth! We did visit this area (as you asked about in your comment on my blog — thank you!) and I was fascinated. Your photos of all the details bring back that experience in all its richness. I spent so long in the Jewish cemetery that my patient husband had to ask me if we could move on. The synagogue next to the cemetery was so moving, too. Thanks for this excellent post!
Rhonda Albom says
Thanks for all the history of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. I took a different tour but it was not as comprehensive as yours was. The Sandemans free walking tours are great.
Pat says
My son visited Prague a few years ago and had so much praise for what a beautiful city it was–one of the few not bombed during WWII. It is definitely on my list of places I want to visit. Wu=ill pin this for future reference!
Michael - The Boys Abroad says
The Jewish Quarter was one of our favourite parts of Prague! Your photos do such an amazing job of capturing this beautiful part of whats overall an incredible city.
Jillian says
The architecture is stunning, and nothing like I pictured in my head. It sounds like the walking tour is a great way to see this part of the city, and part of history. It’s amazing how the buildings (and people) have endured. Thank you for sharing.
Christabel says
Wow, I definitely need to go back to Prague and take the walking tour you went on – my friend and I briefly walked through the Jewish Quarter when we visited but would have LOVED to know more about the history behind it.
Michele says
Great post we head to Prague in February, I really wanted to visit this part of Prague and now after seeing your post i definitely will
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Great history of the Jewish Quarter. I like the story of the Golem, cemetery, along with the wonderful photos of the Synagogues and architecture. Wish I had this on my last visit to Prague. Will pin this for the next time I visit. Prague is a favorite place of mine to visit. Happy you shared! #feetdotravel
hilary says
Prague is popular on the travel blog communities this week, so I know I must be missing out! Thanks for sharing all this good information on #farawayfiles
JetsettingJen says
Love Prague! Great photos!
Sarah says
Amazing photos. I love the architecture it really makes you feel like you are stepping back in time.
Vicky says
What a beautiful part of Prague. Would love to visit one day as I’ve heard such great things about the city. I would definitely take a tour of the Jewish Quarter too. #farawayfiles
Deborah Regen says
I find it interesting to learn how folk stories got their start. Much of the architecture shown in your photos shows the influence of the French of that era which perhaps makes the Moorish Spanish Synagogue stand out even more in contrast. What an absolutely gorgeous building inside and out. Thanks for sharing.
Anda says
It’s been a while since I’ve been in Prague, so your post reminded me about this part of the city which I almost forgot. What stuck with me from the Jewish Quarter was the Jewish Cemetery. I remember being very impressed by those old tombstones, sometimes almost piled up on top of each other. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Trippin' Turpins (Kelly) says
Wow! This place looks absolutely stunning…. and what an interesting history. The building are so beautiful and i just love Golem! I hope to visit one day, thank you for such an in-depth post.
Kate and Kris says
We did a similar free walking tour of Jewish Krakow. Really interesting. We look out for them everywhere we go now. Your pictures are stunning!
budget jan says
A lovely variety of architecture and so well looked after. It would have been a huge undertaking to knock down a lot of buildings and rebuild them in order to look like Paris. There are so many lovely buildings I can’t even pick a favourite!
Russian voyages says
I’ve visited Prague many times, but have not even thought about Jewish quarter. Thanks for sharing these ambience place.
Vanessa Brune says
Even though I’ve visited Prague on a school trip and our program was quite intense, we didn’t visit any of the places in the Jewish Quarter – or at least, I can’t remember it. Definitely need to re-visit Prague one day!
Nancie says
Hi Ruth. Thanks for the tour down memory lane. I took the same free walking tour, and I thought it was excellent. The guide was very knowledgeable. Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday
Anna says
Such a step back to the history, sad in this case – you can tell from the cemetery layers! I haven’t been to the Jewish quarter. Indeed, when I was in Prague in January it was -40 ºC and after a quick walk through the old city center the only thing I was thinking of – a cozy warm blanket at home in Spain! The synagogues look so interning though, I loved the Spanish one! #theweeklypostcard
Frances says
Prague has some really interesting history and architecture! I love how this walking tour was able to fit so much in! I would definitely do this with a guide I think, there’s so much important history associated with the area. Thanks for sharing!
Mar says
so comprehensive and informative. didnt know free tours are common in this part of the world.
Melai says
What an insightful read. You appreciate places like this better if you have a background of how everything came to be. It breaks my heart every time I think about how people lived back then and makes me appreciate the freedom we have now all the more.
We were in Prague last summer but we didn’t get a chance to visit the Jewish Quarter. Your photos look like it was really a great historical experience. I’d have to check the Jewish Quarter next time.
Kathrine says
I really enjoyed the historical and cultural context you included in this post! It sounds like you learned a lot on your walking tour! Thank you for including all of the related links, that’s very helpful
jin says
I wished I had more time to explore other parts of Prague other than the Old Town! I’m def going to check out the Jewish Quarters the next time I’m there – seems like a great place to walk around and explore!
Weekend Haven says
Interesting sights. I love architecture and historical tours. Awesome photos!
nathalie salcedo says
your photos were all so beautiful 🙂
Loving all the structures here. Thanks for sharing!
Stefanie says
Wow, I learned so much from your post! Thanks so much for sharing not only the interesting and important historical facts, but also for giving such good insight into the places you visited and wrote about. I love that the church that was once a venue for oppression is now a symbol of diversity! <3
David | Travelsewhere says
Definitely a beautiful corner of the city. I love the legend of the Golem, it really adds to the story of the area. I’ve yet to go inside the Spanish Synagogue but it looks incredible. Great guide to a corner of Prague. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Sharon Wagner says
I’d love to photograph in that crowded cemetery. (And I thought there were a lot of stones)
Bonnie dubois says
Very clear explanation ?? I also took a tour in Prague, a Street Art tour. Completely different but also lovely. O by the way, I think you mean Franz Kafka… 😉 Been to that statue, square and museum too XX
Mona Corona says
Thank you for sharing this ❤️ I love visiting Jewish quarters wherever they are when traveling. Prague’s is exceptional.
Jean says
One of my favourite areas of Prague. I had no idea about the golem. Love the historical rumors you learn when you go on a walking tour.
Greta says
This looks so beautiful, love your photos! I didn’t make it to the Jewish quarter last time I was in Prague, guess I’ll have to go back! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Stacey says
Prague is a beautiful city. The architecture is stunning. We also did a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter but on our own. I remember touring the cemetery alone because it was so expensive.
Alaine says
I did a walking tour of Prague as well but didn’t see the Jewish quarter. Interesting that Hitler wanted a memorial of the Jews during the war though. As if he wanted to praise his massacres in macabre way.
Taryn says
I love walking tours – definitely the best way to learn about a place. I loved reading about the unique history here – having the context really makes it so much more interesting.
Nafisa Habib says
Definitely would love to visit oneday..Cool photos, loving those architectural style 🙂
Madhu says
That’s such an intriguing article Ruth. Really liked reading it. Well written.
Sapna says
The building in Jewish area is beautiful, seems like an interesting place. Interior of Synagogue is beautiful.
Susie says
Stunning architecture and beautiful photography, Ruth! I’m moving to Germany next year so I’m adding Prague to my bucket list. I love walking tours and I’ve never visited a synagogue before so it’ll be a new experience for me!
Hannah says
Wow! Very informative piece! Wish I’d done this tour when I was there!
Aimee says
Really interesting, I’d like to visit myself one day! Thanks for the inspo and history lesson 🙂
Unta says
I love architecture in that quarter, but somehow forgot the story about Golem. Thanks for bringing my memories back. 🙂
Joanna says
I wish this tour existed when I went to Prague, many many years ago. I did go to the Jewish Quarter back then but I didn’t got a chance to find out the history and the meaning of each building. The story of the Golem sounds fascinating.
Allison says
Prague has such a heartbreaking, yet fascinating history. I would like to visit the Jewish Quarter. It has some beautiful architecture. #weekendwanderlust
Melissa says
What an interesting tour! I haven’t been to Prague yet but I’ll put this on my list for when I do. I love learning about the place I’m visiting, even if it’s a sad history.
Deea says
When I visited Prague I wandered aimlessly around the Jewish quarter, admiring the elegant architecture and spotting the synagogues, without knowing their story or the full historic context of the area. Now I know, but I guess I should have went with a walking tour as well, seems you got to learn so much from your visit!
Clazz says
Wow, this is fascinating and the photos are absolutely beautiful! I had heard of the golem but had no idea about the history or what the legend was. Such sad stories, too. The idea of a museum for an extinct race gave me shivers. 🙁 Thanks for sharing!
Mary says
Great to know about this tour! Thanks for sharing, loved all your pictures.
Annie says
what a clever and interesting angle for a post! I also enjoyed my free walking tour around Amsterdam with Sandemans. Lovely to see the buildings and find out more about this fascinating quarter.
Susanna says
Wow I had NO idea that it was set up to be a museum to an extinct… I have no words. I went to this area, but I didn’t do a tour and I wish I had this post back when I went. Thanks for sharing the tour and your experience.
Lynne Nieman says
I’ve always heard such great things about the Jewish Quarter in Prague. Thanks for filling in some of the history. I’ll be sure to do a walking tour like you did when I finally get to Prague (which I really need and want to do!)
Kelleyn Rothaermel says
These make me want to go back to Prague to see what I missed!
Julie says
Great post! Prague is on my short list of future destinations… your guide will definitely come in handy. I love places like that, with such a rich and emotional history.
Laryssa says
The history and architecture are both amazing. Thanks for sharing. #theweeklypostcard
Carol G says
This walking tour looks fascinating. Where else can you meet a golem on a tour?
Alex says
I love that your devoted a whole post to the Jewish Quarter of Prague. I did the same walking tour and by far, that part of the tour impacted me the most. I didn’t go instead the Spanish Synagogue but man I wish I had! How beautiful is that tile work!
Anjali Chawla says
Amazingly written! I love heritage walking tours. Maisel Synagogue and Spanish Synagogue look beautiful. Legend of Golem intrigued me the most.
Agness of a Tuk Tuk says
I love walking tours and this one seems so awesome and definitely worth taking, Ruth! It really seems that you had an awesome time. Prague is magnificent! What did you like best there?
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
I love the story of the golem – I did not know that. I have not been to Prague, but really very much want to go. Thank you for sharing this side and the history of this quarter with #FarawayFiles.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Great post! We would love to take a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter – the history and architecture both seem amazing. Thanks for linking up with #WeekendWanderlust!
Chloe P says
I didn’t know much about the Jewish Quarter in Prague before, but I’ll definitely keep it in mind when I visit. Thanks for this info! Looks like a beautiful city!