Great Synagogue of Plzen

About

The Great Synagogue of Plzeň, known locally as Velká synagoga, is the largest synagogue in the Czech Republic and one of the most impressive 19‑century Neo‑Romanesque buildings in Europe. Built between 1891 and 1893, it showcases lavish interior decoration, including intricate gilded ceiling panels, a grand Torah ark, and the famous "footprints" sculptures carved by sculptor Lukáš Růžník, which serve as a poignant memorial to the Jewish community’s persecution during the Holocaust. The complex also houses the Old Synagogue, former rabbinical house, and a contemporary concert hall, making it a vibrant cultural hub that offers permanent and temporary exhibitions, orchestral performances, and educational events. Open daily from Sunday to Thursday between 10:00 and 17:00, the synagogue is closed to visitors during Shabbat and Jewish festivals. Guided tours can be booked by telephone or e‑mail, and the venue welcomes visitors of all ages, including a free admission for children under 10 and reduced rates for students, seniors, and victims of the Holocaust. The site also features a mikveh at the Rabbinical House, a historic Jewish cemetery, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Jewish community in Plzeň. In addition to the standard entrance fee of 140 CZK, visitors can enjoy a family discount of 350 CZK for a group of two adults and one child, a group discount of 100 CZK per person for groups of 15 or more, or a special group ticket of 2 790 CZK for 15 visitors. These options make the synagogue an accessible destination for families, school groups, and cultural tours. The synagogue remains a living place of worship and a powerful reminder of resilience and cultural heritage, attracting both local residents and international tourists who seek a deeper understanding of Plzeň’s Jewish past and its contemporary cultural life.

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