Spanish Synagogue

Spanish Synagogue- most recent but it is in the same place as the oldest one from the 12th century. In the 19th century it was adapted for Reform Services with an organ. At a time when Muslims ruled Spain and influenced architecture, this Moorish style became popular. It is Moorish style and reminded us very much of Central Synagogue and inspired by renaissance Jews living through the enlightenment. It seated 800 but was destroyed during the war, new seats installed, the organ was installed and the bima (desk) moved to the Eastern wall (from the center), with gold leaf and inscriptions on the stained glass, the walls are oriental and geometric motifs with bright colors (like Central). A major role in the transformation of Jewish worship in Prague was played by the conductor, composer and author of the Czech National Anthem, Frantisek Skroup (1801-1862). There is an exhibition there on the history of area mostly after the World War II. There are documents about the change of the legal status of Jews over the centuries. There are artifacts of the previous Synagogue that was there (see photos) with fine silver work.

There is also displays of artifacts and discussion of post liberation and periods of antisemitism. There is a display of the contributions of Czech Jews to arts, architecture, theater, film, music authors and scientists are the World. There are tributes to industrialists and successful businesses that grew out of the Jewish area. In the gallery, there are displays and authentic photos and film describing Jewish life over time, the threats over time, and the deportation of Jews through Terezin and the Jewish resistance movement (with assistance from non-Jews). There is a Winter Synagogue in the gallery with its own ark and what was left from the Nazi era. Here are artifacts of the original Synagogues and Jewish homes. Ironically Jewish origins was saved and supported by the communists because they thought it was to be used under the “pretext” to fight Zionism. The final section displays life since the 1950s.Read more