
Oldest Active Synagogue in Europe
Détenteur du record
Valeur du record
1270s (estimated)
The Old-New Synagogue in Prague is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It was completed around 1270 in the city’s medieval Jewish quarter and has served Prague’s Jewish community for more than seven centuries. The building is an outstanding example of early Gothic synagogue architecture, with a distinctive two-nave interior, ribbed vaulting and a central bimah. It was originally known as the New or Great Synagogue; the name Old-New Synagogue came into use only after newer synagogues were established nearby. The synagogue became closely associated with Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel, the Maharal of Prague, and later with legends of the Golem. Most importantly for this record, it remains a functioning house of Jewish worship, which is why the word “Active” is essential to the title.
- Pays du détenteur
- République tchèque
- Lieu de l’accomplissement
- Prague, République tchèque
- Date de l’accomplissement
- 1270
