Maisel Synagogue
Josefov, Prague 1

The synagogue was built in 1590-92 under a privilege granted by Emperor Rudolf II, and for a century it stood as the largest, most impressive building in the Jewish Ghetto.

Maisel Synagogue was funded by the mayor of the ghetto, Mordechai Maisel, who carried out extensive building and reconstruction works in the area in the late 16th century; a time considered to be a golden era in the history of the Jewish Ghetto.

In 1689, a fire tore through the ghetto and burnt down the Renaissance synagogue. It was subsequently rebuilt, and modified several times, before acquiring its current Neo-Gothic form in 1893-1905.

Maisel Synagogue suffered neglect in the Nazi and Communist eras, however extensive reconstruction in 2014-2015 restored the building to its early 20th century appearance.

A permanent exhibition at Maisel Synagogue tells the story of 'Jews in the Bohemian Lands, 10th-18th centuries'.

Displays include rare artefacts, while touch screens enable visitors to search old Hebrew manuscripts, find out about prominent Jewish figures, and view historical maps of Jewish settlements in the area.

You can enter Maisel Synagogue by purchasing a ticket for the Jewish Town (Jewish Museum + Old-New Synagogue), which also includes admission to other historical monuments in the Jewish Quarter.

Alternatively, book the Jewish Quarter Tour, which includes a visit to the synagogue.

To explore the sights in Prague, take a Prague tour.