Great Synagogue (Pilsen)

In the city ​​of Pilsen there is one of the most beautiful prayer houses of the Jewish religion - the Great Synagogue. This is one of the main sights of the city, it is impossible to pass by, even if not looking. Its architecture is favorably different from other buildings. Tourists specially come to the city to admire and visit here.

Construction of a synagogue

The plot of land acquired by the Jewish community for building a synagogue was originally an inn with a huge stables. In 1888, this place was laid the first stone in the foundation of the synagogue. However, the construction of the building began 4 years later, as the local government could not choose a suitable project in any way.

The first plan for the construction was developed by M. Fleischer - it was a Gothic-style building with two towers 65 m high. As a result, due to the similarity with the Catholic buildings, the project had to be adjusted. This was done by the architect E. Klotz. He significantly reduced the height of the towers, and the Gothic style smoothly flowed into the Romanesque with the addition of eastern elements. The project was approved, and in 1892 the construction of the Great Synagogue in Pilsen began.

What is interesting to know about the Great Synagogue?

This landmark is the most interesting among tourists who come to Pilsen. Every year it is visited by thousands of people from around the world. The main features of the Great Synagogue:

  1. Architecture . The exterior style of the building combines several areas of architecture: Moorish, Gothic and Romanesque. The main building stone was granite. The main decoration of the synagogue is the dome towers-twins height of 45 m.
  2. A place of honor . The Great Synagogue in Pilsen is the third largest in the world. It is second only to the two synagogues - in Jerusalem and Budapest.
  3. Capacity . At the time of the opening of the synagogue, the Jewish community of the city was more than 2 thousand people, who became parishioners of the synagogue.
  4. Period of the Second World War . The services were conducted until the occupation by the Germans. During the bombing, the building was not damaged by the houses, which tightly clamped it on both sides. In 1942, the synagogue housed workshops for tailoring clothes and warehouses of German soldiers. Most of the Jewish population was destroyed, some of the survivors immigrated to other countries. After the war, the ministry continued until 1973. After the synagogue was closed.
  5. Meaning . After the restoration in 1992, the Great Synagogue began to be considered not only a prayer house, but also a cultural monument. In it again began to conduct prayer services, but only in one room. Today, Jewish parishioners living in Pilsen, there are only 70 people left. The central hall is open for visits, in addition, concerts are often held there. When visiting the synagogue, pay special attention to the beauty of the central hall and stained glass windows. Also, tourists will be interested to see a permanent exposition called "Jewish Traditions and Customs."
  6. Nearby attractions . Just two steps from the Great Synagogue there are 2 unique historical values ​​of the city - the Opera House and St. Bartholomew's Cathedral .

Transport accessibility and visitation

A large synagogue is located in the central part of the city. You can get there like this:

Visit the synagogue will be more convenient as part of the excursion . Free admission.