Discover the Rich Jewish Heritage and Cultural Treasures of Czechia
Exploring the Legacy of Kafka and the Enigmatic Golem
The Prague Jewish Quarter, nestled in the heart of the historical center, is a significant part of the Old Town. This area is a true gem, enriched with numerous Jewish monuments of immense global significance. Among these, the renowned Old New Synagogue stands as Europe’s oldest preserved synagogue, constructed at the close of the 13th century. A captivating legend claims that the Golem lies buried in its attic. Additionally, the famous writer Franz Kafka once called the Prague Jewish Quarter his home, and his family residence is conveniently located near the bustling Old Town Square. You can delve into his life by participating in one of the specially curated tours.
Jewish Prague Through the Eyes of Dan Brown:
The main character of The Secret of Secrets, Harvard’s expert in religious iconology and symbology, Robert Langdon, unveils Prague as a mystical city, “frozen in the stream of time,” showcasing an intriguing blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. Throughout the narrative, Dan Brown leads readers through the captivating Josefov Jewish Quarter, which features notable sites such as the Old-New Synagogue, recognized as the oldest preserved synagogue in Central Europe, along with the Old Jewish Cemetery. The plot also highlights the iconic writer Franz Kafka, famed for The Metamorphosis, intertwined with the legend of the Golem, which Brown portrays in an unexpected and innovative light.
Maisel Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, and Klausen Synagogue host remarkable permanent exhibitions. They form part of the Jewish Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving Jewish monuments in Prague, including the historic Old Jewish Cemetery, for over a century.
UNESCO Sites and a Unique Junk Shop
St. Procopius’ Basilica and the Jewish Quarter in Třebíč, located within the Vysočina region, are both recognized on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Notably, the Třebíč Jewish site holds the distinction of being the sole location listed individually right after Jerusalem. Historically, Třebíč served as a vital hub for Jewish culture in Moravia, with its well-preserved Jewish town and basilica serving as a testament to the enduring coexistence of Jews and Christians. The densely built Jewish Quarter comprises over 120 houses alongside various former Jewish establishments, including a town hall, school, rabbinate, and alms-house. The Rear Synagogue offers historical insights about the Jewish community through its exhibitions.
A visit to the synagogue is a must as its interior features distinctive Baroque paintings, recognized as the oldest evidence of synagogue decoration in Moravia. The house of Seligman Bauer is equally intriguing, showcasing an authentic junk shop on its ground floor, reflecting one of the traditional occupations of Jewish people in the past. On the first floor, visitors can explore the genuine living conditions of a modest Jewish family during the interwar era. Today, the Třebíč Jewish Quarter presents a quaint picturesque small town set within a larger town, adorned with inviting cafés and guesthouses.
A Glimpse into Sigmund Freud: The Birth of Psychoanalysis
To delve into the origins of Sigmund Freud, the pioneer of psychoanalysis, consider visiting the town of Příbor in northern Moravia. Freud was born into a family of a Jewish fabric merchant and, despite only spending his first three years there, the experiences from that brief period shaped his entire life. His family home is available for exploration, furnished and decorated to reflect the era when young Sigmund learned to walk and speak under the vigilant care of his mother.
Remarkable Jewish Heritage Sites
Across the Czech Republic, various towns and villages are home to Jewish heritage sites, many now serving as museums, exhibition spaces, or concert venues. In Holešov, located in Moravia, lies the unique Polish-style Shakh’s Synagogue. While it appears like an ordinary house from the outside, stepping inside reveals an astonishingly beautiful interior that shouldn’t be overlooked.
In Plzeň, situated in West Bohemia, the Great Synagogue awaits admiration as the largest in the Czech Republic, the second largest in Europe, and the fifth largest worldwide. With its exceptional acoustics and enchanting ambiance, this grand structure, designed in Moorish-Romanesque style and featuring stunning interiors, also serves as a venue for concerts and exhibitions.
Significant collections of Jewish artifacts are preserved in Boskovice and Mikulov in southern Moravia. An educational trail guides visitors through the remnants of the old Mikulov ghetto, showcasing the synagogue, Jewish cemetery, and a rare medieval mikveh. In Mikulov’s historic Jewish district, the Tanzberg Hotel and Restaurant is far from ordinary; it was once the original rabbinate, which played a vital role in the community’s history.
In March 2024, the renovated synagogue in the picturesque town of Žatec, located in North Bohemia, was inaugurated as a cultural center and museum. It stands as the second largest Jewish building in Bohemia. The synagogue, along with the town and the surrounding hop-growing landscape, has been added to the UNESCO Heritage Site list.
Experience delectable “kosher” food and beverages on “VIP tours” offered by the Krnov Synagogue situated in northern Moravia. Alternatively, you can follow the historical journey of the Jews in the exhibition titled “Jewish Industrialists, Entrepreneurs and Inventors.”
Where to Experience Jewish Culture Festivals
Judafest in Prague (October 5, 2025)
Join us for a full day celebrating Czech Jewish culture! The Judafest festival is set to take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Peškovka (Eliška Pešková Street 333/7, 150 00 Prague 5) under the engaging theme, “The Future as a Challenge.” Attendees can anticipate an afternoon brimming with lectures, panel discussions, concerts, delicious kosher culinary experiences, and the chance to dive into Jewish culture and customs. Admission is free.
Děčín Synagogue (October 11, 2025)
Open house event featuring a photography exhibition opening.
Male chajim – Jewish Culture Festival in Třebíč (July 30 – August 3, 2025)
Enjoy several days filled with concerts, seminars, and activities for both children and adults. Special festival tours of the Jewish Quarter will be available, along with sampling of kosher food and drinks.
Ha-Makom Jewish Culture Festival in Holešov (July 22–27, 2025)
This festival promises guided tours of the Moravian town of Holešov, in addition to exhibitions and concerts featuring not just Jewish music.
Mikulov Days of Jewish Culture (September 18–21, 2025)
Trace the history of the Jewish community and their rich culture during the festival in Mikulov. Participate in guided tours of the Jewish cemetery, synagogue, and district, indulge in delicious Jewish snacks, attend seminars and Klezmer music concerts, sample kosher wine, and witness a traditional Jewish dance show.
Olomouc Days of Jewish Culture (September)
Visitors to Olomouc can look forward to a variety of exhibitions, films, concerts, and the chance to enjoy traditional cuisine during the Days of Jewish Culture in October.
ŠTEFL Fest (August 27–31, 2025)
This multi-genre international festival of Jewish culture unites several institutions in Brno and commemorates significant historical locations and figures related to Jewish life.
Kosher Cuisine: A Delight!
Experience the deliciousness of traditional dishes prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws! Discover for yourself in one of the kosher restaurants in Prague that meticulously follow all principles of kashrut in meal preparation. Each restaurant is conveniently located in the center of Prague, within the Jewish Quarter of Josefov in the Old Town. Pátá čtvrť (The Fifth Quarter) is the oldest kosher restaurant in Prague, serving the finest traditional Jewish cuisine from pre-war Central and Eastern Europe. The Chabad Kosher Grill offers an extraordinary dining experience with a fine dining menu. Lastly, for those who appreciate kosher vegetarian dishes, Shelanu Pizzeria is an essential stop!
