Old Synagogue in Plzeň

The Old Synagogue in Plzeň, known locally as Stará synagoga v Plzni, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic. This historic site, tucked away in the courtyard of a building in the Smetanovy Sady, is a testament to the rich Jewish heritage of Plzeň. As the oldest preserved synagogue in the city, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to explore the cultural tapestry of the region.

The History of the Old Synagogue in Plzeň

The story of the Old Synagogue begins in the mid-19th century. It was constructed between 1857 and 1859 by the builder Wenzel Wiesner, following the architectural plans of Martin Stelzer. This neo-Romanesque structure, with its rectangular layout measuring 20 by 14 meters, stands 12 meters tall. The synagogue's design is characterized by its two women’s galleries and a beautifully crafted wooden coffered ceiling.

The foundation stone was laid on June 17, 1857, in a ceremony attended by city officials, members of the Jewish community, and the public. Rabbi Angelus Kafka delivered a poignant speech, and a document engraved in copper was placed in the foundations, bearing the name of the emperor and other dignitaries of the time. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Jewish community in Plzeň, who had gradually returned to the city after being expelled in 1504.

Architectural Marvel and Historical Significance

The Old Synagogue is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the Jewish community's resilience and contribution to Plzeň's transformation into an industrial hub. The synagogue was granted permission for construction in December 1854, at a time when the Jewish community consisted of 41 families. It was built in a reformed style, with rows of benches in the center and an elevated area for reading the Torah in front of the ark on the eastern wall.

In 1859, the newly constructed synagogue was consecrated, and a decade later, it was equipped with new organs built by C. L. Edenhofer from Regen. Unfortunately, these organs were destroyed during World War I. As the Jewish community grew, the Old Synagogue became insufficient in capacity, leading to the construction of the Auxiliary Synagogue in 1875. The two buildings were connected by a wooden gallery and a stone staircase, creating a unique architectural ensemble.

Challenges and Restoration

Despite its initial significance, the Old Synagogue's importance waned after the construction of the Great Synagogue in 1893. The building fell into disrepair and was largely unused. In 1939, it narrowly escaped destruction when members of an anti-Semitic movement attempted to bomb it. However, the synagogue endured, standing as a silent witness to the turbulent history of the 20th century.

In the years following the Velvet Revolution, efforts to restore the Old Synagogue gained momentum. In 1995, the building was cleared out, and it began hosting exhibitions and concerts. A partial reconstruction took place in 2001, and between 2010 and 2014, the synagogue underwent extensive renovations as part of the 10 Stars project, aimed at revitalizing Jewish monuments in the Czech Republic. This project, funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Czech government, restored the synagogue to its former glory.

Exploring the Old Synagogue Today

Today, the Old Synagogue is a vibrant cultural and religious center, actively used by the Jewish Community of Plzeň for worship. It is open to the public year-round, offering a unique opportunity to explore its historical and architectural significance. The interior is divided into three distinct sections, with the main hall being used for temporary exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events.

Permanent Exhibitions and Cultural Heritage

The synagogue houses two permanent exhibitions in its women's galleries. The first exhibition delves into the history of Jews in the Plzeň region, providing an overview of their contributions and experiences throughout the centuries. The second exhibition focuses on Jewish customs and traditions, highlighting key milestones in Jewish life such as birth, circumcision, bar mitzvah, marriage, and death. It also explains the Jewish calendar and traditional holidays, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Jewish culture and heritage.

The Old Synagogue in Plzeň is more than just a historic building; it is a living monument to the enduring spirit of the Jewish community. Its walls echo with stories of resilience and renewal, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the rich cultural tapestry of Plzeň and the broader Czech Republic. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Old Synagogue invites you to step back in time and explore its fascinating past.