High Synagogue, Prague

High Synagogue, Prague

A refined example of Renaissance architecture in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, the High Synagogue was funded by one of the wealthiest figures in 16th-century Prague—philanthropist Mordechai Maisel. Completed in 1568, it was strategically built next to the Jewish Town Hall and initially served as a venue for the council’s deliberations and the seat of the Rabbinic Court.

The name “High Synagogue” refers to the elevated location of the main prayer hall, which was constructed on the upper floor, giving it both symbolic and practical prominence. Though the building suffered considerable damage during the Great Fire of 1689, restoration efforts were swift and thorough. One of the original features that survived is the ribbed vaulted ceiling, with its striking eight-pointed star motif—a detail that continues to catch the eye today. Later, in 1883, the structure was renovated again, lending it the more understated exterior we see now.

During the Nazi occupation and the Communist era, the synagogue functioned as an exhibition space for the Jewish Museum, showcasing, Torah textiles, ceremonial silverwork, and rare Hebrew manuscripts. After the Velvet Revolution, a bookshop was opened on the premises, focusing on Holocaust literature and Jewish studies.

Since 1997, the High Synagogue has once again been consecrated as a place of worship. Although not open to casual visitors, those who attend services or gain access can view beautifully preserved Torah scrolls and elaborately embroidered mantles—objects that speak not only of ritual, but of continuity across generations.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Prague. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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High Synagogue on Map

Sight Name: High Synagogue
Sight Location: Prague, Czech Republic (See walking tours in Prague)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Prague, Czech Republic

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Create Your Own Walk in Prague

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Old Town Souvenir Shopping

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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
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Old Town Walking Tour

Old Town Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Hradcany (Castle District) Walking Tour

Hradcany (Castle District) Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Prague Introduction Walking Tour

Prague Introduction Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
New Town Walking Tour

New Town Walking Tour

The youngest (founded in 1348) and the largest (three times the size of the Old Town), the New Town (or Nove Mesto) of Prague is one of the five originally independent townships that today form the historic center of the Czech capital. This vibrant district offers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities and is traditionally dense with tourists.

At its heart lies Wenceslas Square, a...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Lesser Town Walking Tour

Lesser Town Walking Tour

Mala Strana (or "Lesser Town") is a district in Prague situated on the left bank of the Vltava River. Renowned for its architectural beauty, this is one of the capital's most historically significant neighborhoods. Back in the Middle Ages, it was predominantly populated by ethnic Germans and, in later years, despite the prevalence of Baroque in its architecture, largely retained its...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles

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