In Prague’s Jewish Quarter, the Spanish Synagogue pairs a richly decorated Moorish Revival interior with exhibitions on Jewish history in the Bohemian lands. Completed in 1868 on the site of the Old School synagogue, it has patterned stucco, gilded details, stained glass and an upper gallery for a closer look at the decoration. Exhibits cover Jewish history and include silver objects from synagogues in Bohemia and Moravia. Classical and sacred music concerts are also held here, so check whether a performance fits your visit.
Built on the site of the Old School
The Spanish Synagogue was completed in 1868 in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, on the site of the Old School, also known as the Altschul. The earlier synagogue was associated with Prague’s oldest Jewish place of worship. The new building became a place of worship for a Reform congregation and is the youngest of Prague’s historic synagogues.
The synagogue was later repurposed as a Jewish museum. It is now part of the Jewish Museum in Prague, alongside other sites in Josefov. A combined ticket can cover several Jewish Quarter landmarks, including the Spanish Synagogue, though the ticket options and prices are not specified here.
Moorish Revival details
The interior takes inspiration from Moorish design in southern Spain, including the Alhambra in Granada. Look for repeated arabesque patterns, gilding and stylized motifs across the walls, dome, doors and galleries. Colorful stained-glass windows and detailed railings continue the ornament through the room.
An upper floor gives a closer view of the decoration high on the walls and ceiling. The building also has an organ. Take a moment to look at the exterior before entering: its arches and decorative details set it apart from the Gothic forms found elsewhere in Prague’s Jewish Quarter.
Exhibitions and concerts
The synagogue houses exhibitions about Jewish history in the Bohemian lands, including material on communities in Bohemia and Moravia. The displays trace that history from the 18th century into the postwar period. A collection of silver objects from synagogues in Bohemia and Moravia is another focus; the pieces were made by generations of Central European silversmiths.
Classical and sacred music performances are held in the synagogue. Concerts give visitors a chance to hear the room used as a performance space as well as see its interior. If a concert is part of your plan, arrange tickets ahead and arrive early enough to look around before it begins.
Häufige Fragen
When was the Spanish Synagogue built?
It was completed in 1868 on the site of the Old School, an earlier synagogue in Prague’s Jewish Quarter.
What can you see inside the Spanish Synagogue?
The interior has Moorish Revival patterns, gilded decoration and stained glass. The synagogue also houses exhibitions on Jewish history in the Bohemian lands and silver objects from synagogues in Bohemia and Moravia.
Are concerts held at the Spanish Synagogue?
Yes. Classical and sacred music performances take place there. Advance tickets are recommended for concerts.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 20 minutes for a short visit. Give yourself longer if you want to explore the exhibitions in detail.
