Prague Jewish Quarter (Josefov): Things to Do in 2025
Could anyone argue if I called Prague an open-air museum? Hardly… One of the places that impressed me the most here is the Prague Jewish Quarter. You might often hear it referred to as Josefov, as it was named in honor of Emparor Joseph II, who granted equal rights to both Jews and Catholics.
The history of the Jewish Quarter began in the 13th century, and it has been a distinctive part of the city ever since. The unique architecture and the mix of various styles are captivating—in the Jewish Quarter, Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, Art Nouveau, and other styles blend beautifully, making it a true treat for lovers of architecture and art. Today, the old synagogues are hidden behind modern buildings, yet they remain the true treasures of this district.
So, I invite you to take a stroll through this remarkable quarter in Prague, rich in unique architecture and steeped in deep history.
Jewish Quarter In Prague: What To See
Old New Synagogue
The Old New Synagogue, built in 1270, is the oldest in Europe. Why such a peculiar name? Originally, it was called the New Synagogue, but as more synagogues were built, its name was changed to the Old New Synagogue.
Today, this synagogue, steeped in many legends, still serves as an active place of worship and, at the same time, is a significant historical and cultural landmark. Those interested in Jewish history should not miss it. Visitors can admire its stunning Gothic architecture, which is evident both in its exterior and interior.
Tip and Opening Hours: The synagogue is usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. (exact hours depend on the season). It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. By the way, the opening hours of all the synagogues in this quarter are very similar, but it’s worth noting that they change slightly during the off-season.
Old Jewish Cemetery
This is a site of great historical significance, not only for the Jewish community. The cemetery was established in the mid-15th century and was in use for about three centuries. Approximately 100,000 people are buried here, including prominent rabbis, writers, scholars, and others.
In the cemetery, you can see a wide variety of tombstones, ranging from very modest to more elaborate ones, carved with symbols (often reflecting the deceased’s life or profession) and Hebrew inscriptions. The cemetery is several centuries old, so restoration work is being carried out to preserve it. Today, the Old Jewish Cemetery is a peaceful tourist attraction, offering a deeper insight into Jewish history.
Opening Hours: The Old Jewish Cemetery can be visited from Sunday to Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Fridays until 2:00 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Prague.
Jewish Museum In Prague
The Jewish Museum, established in 1906, is home to one of the largest Judaica collections in the world. It features a vast array of silver artifacts, textiles, 100,000 books, and around 40,000 other exhibits. Visitors can explore various ancient garments, photographs, manuscripts, and many other items.
One of the most significant aspects for visitors here is the descriptions of Holocaust victims and the stories of those who survived this horrific ordeal. This unique museum provides a deep insight into the tragic history of Prague’s Jewish community and life during the Nazi occupation. Exhibitions are spread across the Jewish Quarter, including the Maisel, Pinkas, Klausen Synagogues, and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
Working Hours: The museum is open from Sunday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Opening hours may vary depending on the season, so I recommend checking the official website for up-to-date information before your visit.
Pinkas Synagogue
The Pinkas Synagogue is one of the main parts of the Jewish Museum. Built in 1535, it was transformed into a memorial after World War II to honor the 80,000 Czechoslovak Jews who were murdered by the Nazis. The names of those who perished under horrific circumstances are written on the synagogue’s walls. On the second floor, visitors can view drawings created by children from the Terezín concentration camp. This synagogue provides a profound insight into the tragic past of Czech Jews. The peaceful atmosphere allows visitors to deeply reflect on the fate of Prague’s Jewish community.
Spanish Synagogue
The Spanish Synagogue, built in the Moorish style, made the greatest impression on me among all the synagogues in this quarter. Constructed in 1868, its design is particularly eye-catching, featuring oriental motifs, which are quite unusual in the context of Prague’s architecture. The interior is adorned with golden elements and stunning stained glass windows. During World War II, the synagogue was used as a storage site for confiscated Jewish property. Today, this impressive building, which is part of the Jewish Museum, hosts concerts and exhibitions.
In this beautiful synagogue, visitors can explore an exhibition on the Jewish history of the 19th and 20th centuries. It also showcases a unique collection of silver artifacts, including various liturgical objects used in Jewish religious rituals.
Discover: Classical Concert in the Spanish Synagogue.
Museum of Alchemy
A truly authentic site, the Museum of Alchemy showcases ancient cellars discovered after the 2002 flood in Prague, where alchemists worked as far back as the 16th century. Visitors have the chance to explore an alchemist’s laboratory and see the tools alchemists once used. The tour also includes a walk through the underground chambers where these early scientists worked under challenging conditions. This place allows you to travel back in time and experience the spirit of that era. Additionally, here you can purchase souvenirs, such as elixirs made according to ancient recipes.
Opening Hours: The museum is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Maisel Synagogue
Built in 1592 as a private prayer house for a wealthy leader of the Jewish community, this synagogue has undergone several reconstructions after being damaged by fire. Today, visitors are greeted by a charming Neo-Gothic style building. The synagogue also features an exhibition on the earliest history of Jews in the Czech Republic, covering the period from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Visitors can view historical documents, maps, artworks, textiles, relics, and more.
Klausen Synagogue
Built in 1694, this synagogue immediately captures attention with its Baroque style. The building is significant for both its historical and religious importance. Visitors can admire the synagogue’s beautiful interior and explore a collection reflecting Jewish customs, traditions, and religion. Exhibits include Jewish religious objects, items from everyday life, Torah scrolls, ceremonial garments, silver vessels, and other artifacts used in religious rituals.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Prague.
Ceremonial Hall
The space known as the Ceremonial Hall hosts a unique exhibition dedicated to honoring and showcasing Jewish funeral traditions and the objects used during funerals. It offers visitors the opportunity to learn about Jewish funeral symbols and rituals. The exhibits focus on death and the preparation for burial. They include items such as clothing details, funeral accessories, combs used to groom the deceased, and more. In this death-themed exhibition, visitors can also see paintings that reflect this somber subject matter.
Jerusalem Synagogue
Opened in 1906, the Jerusalem Synagogue is without a doubt one of the most impressive synagogues in Prague, captivating visitors not only with its colorful exterior but also with its elaborate interior. The striking decorations and stained glass windows immediately catch the eye. This synagogue beautifully represents the Moorish and Art Nouveau styles, making it a standout in Prague’s architectural landscape. Credit for this extraordinary design goes to a prominent architect of the time. Since its construction, the synagogue has hosted services, with the exception of a few wartime years when it served as a storage space for confiscated Jewish property.
Statue of Franz Kafka
In Prague’s Jewish Quarter, near Kafka’s house, stands a monument dedicated to him, created by one of the Czech sculptors. The statue was erected in 2003 and depicts Kafka sitting on the shoulders of a headless figure. This modern statue is quite striking, and the bronze monument stands nearly 4 meters tall.
Tips: My advice for those planning their time – while you can visit many of the famous sites in this quarter within half a day, I recommend taking more time. Explore the synagogues thoroughly, admire their stunning interiors, and visit the exhibitions. Dedicating a bit more of your travel time will help you fully experience this quarter.
Also read: What to See in Prague
How To Get To The Quarter By Public Transport
The Prague Jewish Quarter is located just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town Square, making it easily accessible from there. If you plan to reach the quarter by public transport, take the metro and get off at the Staromestska station (A Line).
You can also use bus routes 194 and 207, which stop at various locations within the Jewish Quarter, or if you prefer the tram, get off at the Pravnicka fakulta stop (Lines 17 and 93).
Best Time To Visit The Jewish Quarter
A visit to the Prague Jewish Quarter will be one of the most memorable parts of your trip to the Czech capital. To make the most of your visit, plan your trip during the cooler months. From April to June or September to November, the weather is milder, and the crowds are much smaller compared to the summer. If you do visit Prague in the summer, try to go to the Jewish Quarter early in the morning, as by midday, it will be crowded with tourists, large tour groups, and long lines.
Where To Stay In Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
There are many different types of hotels around Prague’s Old Town Square, so I’ve listed a few interesting options below, catering to various budgets.
Below, I’ve listed a few interesting hotel options for different budgets, so I hope you’ll find the best place to stay if you choose to stay in this area.
Budget Hotel
- Hotel “Palác U Kočků” by Adrez, Palace At the Cats, is located near the Prague Jewish Quarter. Guests can stay in rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Mid-Range Hotel
- Myo Hotel Caruso – a hotel located right in the Prague Jewish Quarter, from which you can reach the main attractions on foot in just a few minutes. The colorful rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and private bathrooms.
Luxury Hotel
- The President – a luxurious 5-star hotel located close to the Jewish Quarter. The hotel offers top-class rooms, a wide range of services, and guests are welcomed with warm hospitality. It also has an indoor pool, a spa and wellness center, an exclusive restaurant, and a bar on the 6th floor, offering stunning views of Prague.
Also read: Guide to Old Town Square in Prague
FAQs About Prague Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Why is the Jewish Quarter important?
The Prague Jewish Quarter is one of the oldest districts in the city, where Jews have lived since the 8th century. The quarter is most famous for its beautiful synagogues and ancient cemeteries.
Do you need tickets to the Jewish Quarter in Prague?
No, you can walk around the Prague Jewish Quarter for free. However, if you wish to visit the synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Ceremonial Hall, you will need to purchase a ticket.
How to enter the Jewish cemetery in Prague?
The entrance to the Old Jewish Cemetery is through the Pinkas Synagogue. Full address: Široká 3, 110 00 Josefov, Czech Republic.
What time does the Prague Jewish Quarter open?
Most of the attractions in the Prague Jewish Quarter, such as the museum, synagogues, and cemetery, are open to visitors every day, except on Saturdays and Jewish holidays, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
How many synagogues are there in the Prague Jewish Quarter?
There are 6 synagogues preserved in the Prague Jewish Quarter to this day. (Maisel, Pinkas, Klausen, High, Spanish, and the Old New Synagogues.)
How many Jews live in the Jewish Quarter?
Currently, about 1,500 Jews live in the Prague Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov. It’s incredible yet sad to think that before the Second World War, more than 92,000 Jews lived in Prague. At that time, the city had one of the largest Jewish communities in Europe, making up nearly 20 percent of its population.
What is the oldest active synagogue in Prague?
The Old New Synagogue in Josefov is not only the oldest functioning synagogue in Prague but also in all of Europe.
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
