Prague: Ghetto
Josefov
The Ghetto is a very small place, just under twenty acres, but it has a mighty history. It has existed since the tenth century, but the community of today (Josefov) owes its origin to sixteenth-cent rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel.
On sale
Ceremonial supplies and souvenirs for those who visit. Below: One of the six synagogues remaining in the Ghetto.
The Cemetery
Prague’s greatest Jewish luminaries, Mordecai Maisel and Judah Loew ben Bezalel (see below), legendary creator of the golem, are interred here. Space in this small cemetery was at such a premium taht the dead are buried in twelve layers.
The Klausen Synagogue
Established in 1570, of early Baroque style. After Prague’s many bursts of civic constriction over the years, the Klausen is the only remaining Baroque synagogue.
The Old-New Synagogue
The Old-New Synagogue, first in the Ghetto, is most closely tied to Rabbi Loew. Men and women were seated separately for service here.
The Spanish Synagogue
The Spanish Synagogue, built in the 19th Century, is the newest in the Quarter. It was built on the site of the oldest synagogue.
