Velká synagoga Synagogue
Velká synagoga in Pilsen is the largest synagogue in the Czech Republic and the second largest in Europe. It is located in the centre of Pilsen, in the street Set of 35th. It was built in a New Romanesque style with Moorish elements. The construction took place according to the plans of Viennese architect Max Fleischer and Pilsen builder Emanuel Klotz.
Velká synagoga is remarkable by its monumental construction with two 45-metre towers and a three-boat layout. The interior of the synagogue is decorated with a painting with plant motifs and contains an organ. Part of the complex is also a separate rabbi house.
In the historical context, Velká synagoga ranks among the new Jewish monuments that were created in the 19th century in Bohemia. At that time, Jewish life developed and new synagogues were created to serve as centres of the Jewish community.
Velká synagoga was built in a new Romanesque style with Moorish elements. The construction was carried out according to the plans of Viennese architect Max Fleischer and Pilsen builder Emanuel Klotz. The construction took place between 1888 and 1892 and the cost of the construction reached 141 092 gold.
In 1939, members of the anti-Semitic flagship movement tried to launch bombing attacks on the Great Synagogue. But the action failed. During World War II, the synagogue served as a warehouse. After the war, it was again used for religious purposes. By the end of the communist regime, it was abandoned and decayed.
After 1989, the village officials sent hundreds of letters to Jewish communities in the US to raise funds for reconstruction. But these efforts were unsuccessful. Thanks only to the contribution from the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic it was possible to start repairs. In 1992, the synagogue was declared a cultural monument and was renovated between 1995 and 1997. Three stages were completed with a total cost of CZK 58 million.
In spring 1998 the synagogue was ceremonially reopened to the public. On 20 September of the same year, the first service took place in the synagogue after many years. Many cultural events have taken place since then.
Another major reconstruction took place between 2019 and 2022. The opening ceremony took place on 10 April 2022. Velká synagoga is remarkable with its architecture and creative depictions. It is not only a significant monument to the Jewish community, but also to the cultural and historical interest of the city of Pilsen.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1888
- start of construction
- 1890
- organami equipment
- 1892
- completion of construction
- 1992
- declaration by cultural monument
- 1998
- festive reopening
Architectural development
The construction took place between 1888 and 1892. The interior of the synagogue is decorated with a painting with plant motifs. The organ from 1890 is also included.
Historical events
- 1939
- members of the anti-Semitic fascist movement Vlajka tried to carry out bombings on the Great Synagogue and other Jewish monuments in Pilsen
- 1992
- Velká synagoga was declared a cultural monument of the Czech Republic
- 1998
- the synagogue was ceremoniously reopened for the public
Owners
municipality of Jižní Předměstí
Points of interest
- Velká synagoga is the largest synagogue in the Czech Republic and the second largest in Europe. Part of the complex is the Rabbi house. - The construction was carried out according to the plans of Viennese architect Max Fleischer and Pilsen builder Emanuel Klotz. - In 1939, members of the anti-Semitic Flame Movement tried to launch bomb attacks on the Great Synagogue. In 1992, the synagogue was declared a cultural monument.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to one of the most remarkable monuments of Pilsen and the whole Czech Republic - Great Synagogue. You are standing right in front of a monumental building that is proud not only to be the largest synagogue in our country, but also the second largest in Europe and the fifth in the world. As you can already see, its impressive facade is proudly turned into the horizon of Southern Suburbia, offering you a unique view of rich history and architecture.
Let's look at its origin. The construction of the Great Synagogue began in 1888 according to the plans of Viennese architect Max Fleischer, who collaborated with the Pilsen construction company Emanuel Klotz. After two years of work the synagogue was completed and already in 1890 the organ could ring the first bells, which added to the construction of both religious and cultural dimensions. Almost 100 years later, in 1992, the synagogue was declared a cultural monument of the Czech Republic and after cleaning it was a festive reopening in 1998.
Look up at her elegant facade. Although we do not have details in front of us such as towers or dome, you may notice a harmonious connection between Greek Romanesque and Oriental Elements, which are the characteristics of Max Fleischer's architecture. The inner space is also full of fascinating details, such as a bunk rabbi house, which is located in a building complex.
The synagogue has a dramatic historical chapter behind it. In 1939, members of the anti-Semitic movement, Flag, tried to damage this place, a reminder of many tragic events witnessed by the Jewish community in the past. Yet the synagogue became a symbol of endurance and endurance.
The interesting thing is that Velká synagoga not only served as a religious centre, but also as the cultural core of the Jewish community in Pilsen. It's a place where different generations met and many memories of the past were preserved.
I suggest we explore other parts of the complex and see the details that help us better understand the history of this place. Whether you look at the demanding craftsmanship or simply stop and listen to the calm that the synagogue offers you, every moment here is filled with fascinating stories.
Thank you for visiting the Great Synagogue. We hope you enjoyed our tour and that you will return with new questions and curiosity. I wish you a pleasant further journey along Pilsen and we hope that this place will also be a model of resilience and cultural wealth for future generations.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit is during daylight so that you can photograph the interiors well.
It is advisable to bring your camera and batteries because photography is allowed, but there is no lighting.
In the vicinity of the synagogue you will find many other historical monuments and cultural institutions such as Pilsen Castle and the West Bohemian Museum.
It is also advisable for families with children to visit a nearby park where there is a playground and it is possible to relax from the tour.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Religious buildings are usually open mainly during services; at other times a visit is normally arranged with the parish or the operator. We have not verified specific times.
Where is the monument?
Location: Jižní Předměstí, Plzeňský kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 1000118575).
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Synagoga se nachází v centru města Plzeň.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Search tours and activities →Themed route
1. Exterrier of the Great Synagogue, Architecture: Admire the monumental facade and the spectacular appearance of the building. 2. Main Prayer Hall, Interior: Explore spacious indoor space with unique proclamation. 3. Exposition, exhibition: Meet the history and traditions of the local Jewish community. 4. Tanks, outdoor area: Visit the quiet part of the immediate area of the monument.
Seasonal recommendations
In spring the Jižní Předměstí flourishes and the surroundings of the synagogue fill with fresh greenery and colors of the first flowers. The soft spring light highlights the details of the facade beautifully and there is a feeling of replacement in the premises. We recommend arriving in the morning when the air is the cleanest and the visitors are less. Due to the variable weather, it is advisable to bring a light jacket.
The summer season brings intense sun and clear visibility, making the building very monumental. Expect larger clusters of people in the season, which is why it is best to plan a visit right at the beginning of opening time to avoid the biggest crowds. Dress light, breathable clothes and do not forget enough fluids.
In autumn, the surroundings of the monument turn into golden tones and morning fog gives the place a mysterious, peaceful atmosphere. The walks on South Suburb are very relaxed at this time and the colours of the leaves complement the architecture of the synagogue. We recommend moisture-resistant shoes and a visit in late afternoon hours when the sun throws long shadows.
In winter, the synagogue acts in contrast to the cold air and possible snow blanket very tight. In advent time, silence and special expectations rule the neighborhood. Don't forget to wear very warm clothes and check in advance for shortened opening times. The ideal is a short, intense visit in the middle of the day when the most light is.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Norbert Aepli, Switzerland (User:Noebu) / CC BY 2.5 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
Příběhy a pověsti
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