Page 682 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Europe

680  CENTR AL AND EASTERN EUROPE

w Old-New Synagogue

Built around 1270, this is the oldest synagogue in Europe, and
one of the earliest Gothic buildings in Prague. The synagogue
has survived fires, the slum clearances of the 19th century,
and many Jewish pogroms. Residents of the Jewish Quarter
have often had to seek refuge within its walls, and today it is
still the religious center for Prague’s Jews. It was originally
called the New Synagogue, until another synagogue was Right-hand Nave
built nearby – this was later destroyed. The glow from the bronze
chandeliers provides light
for worshippers using the
seats lining the walls.

. Jewish Standard
The historic banner of Prague’s Jews is
decorated with a Star of David, within
which is depicted the hat that had to
be worn by Jews in the 14th century.

. Five-rib Vaulting
Two massive octagonal
pillars inside the main hall
support the five-rib vaults.

KEY
1 The cantor’s platform and
its lectern are surrounded by a
wrought-iron Gothic grille.
2 These windows formed part of
the 18th-century extension, built to
allow women a view of the service.
3 Candlestick holder
Entrance to the synagogue
4 14th-century stepped from Červená Street
brick gable
5 The Ark is the holiest place in the Entrance Portal
synagogue and holds the sacred The tympanum above the door in
scrolls of the Torah. The tympanum the south vestibule is carved
above it is decorated with with a vine, which bears 12
13th-century leaf carvings. bunches of grapes, symbolizing
the tribes of Israel.
For hotels and restaurants see p688 and p689

680-681_EW_Europe.indd 680 14/07/16 10:20 am