Josefov - The Jewish Quarter

The Josefov Jewish Quarter is one of Prague’s most historically significant areas, offering a deep dive into the city’s Jewish heritage. Nestled between the Old Town and the Vltava River, Josefov was once home to a thriving Jewish community, and its monuments reflect centuries of rich culture and poignant history. Today, the quarter is a blend of preserved Jewish landmarks, poignant memorials, and a few remaining traces of the bustling Jewish ghetto that existed until the late 19th century, when it was demolished as part of urban redevelopment.

The heart of Josefov is the Old Jewish Cemetery, the oldest of its kind in Central Europe, and one of the most remarkable historical sites in Prague. A final resting place for thousands of Jews who lived in Prague between the 15th and 18th centuries, the cemetery features densely packed graves, some stacked up to 12 layers deep, creating a haunting and unique landscape of uneven tombstones. Many gravestones are ornately decorated with Hebrew inscriptions and symbols, offering a glimpse into the customs and traditions of the Jewish community in Prague. The cemetery, along with the nearby Jewish Museum, provides powerful insight into the religious and cultural heritage of Prague’s Jewish population.

As you walk through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter, you’ll encounter several synagogues that stand as testaments to Jewish life in Prague. The Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe, has been in continuous use since its completion in 1270. Featuring a striking Gothic design, it is one of the most revered Jewish sites in Prague.

Close by is the Spanish Synagogue, a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture, famous for its intricate interiors and beautiful Islamic-style arches. Then there’s the Pinkas Synagogue, which now serves as a memorial to the Czech Jewish victims of the Holocaust, with the names of over 77,000 victims inscribed on its walls. The Maisel Synagogue, originally built in the 16th century and later reconstructed, houses exhibits from the Jewish Museum's collection of historical artifacts.

The Klausen Synagogue offers additional historical insight with exhibitions on Jewish rituals and traditions. Meanwhile, the Ceremonial Hall of the Jewish Cemetery is a somber yet significant site where services were held for the deceased.

Josefov is not only a place of historical importance but also contains hidden gems in its side streets, offering a quieter and more reflective experience than other parts of Prague. The quarter's narrow alleys, Jewish restaurants, and intimate courtyards invite visitors to explore deeper into Prague's cultural fabric, making Josefov a must-visit destination for those wishing to understand the profound Jewish legacy in the city.

💡 Top Tip 💡

For a deeper, more meaningful experience of the Jewish Quarter, book a guided tour. These tours, usually lasting about 2.5 hours, offer a unique perspective, bringing to life the rich history and personal stories of this significant area. It's an unforgettable way to connect with the heritage of Josefov and truly understand its cultural and historical significance.

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📅 Plan your visit

✡️ 3 DAY TICKET includes entry to: Old-New Synagogue, Old Jewish Cemetery, Ceremonial Hall, Spanish Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue & Robert Guttmann Gallery
🕒 Opening hours:
      Apr–Oct: 9:00–18:00
      Nov–Mar: 9:00–16:30 (Old-New Synagogue up to 17:00)
      Old-New Synagogue closes on Fridays 1 hour before Shabbat
      Closed: Saturdays and Jewish holidays
🌐 Buy tickets online to avoid queues
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at Information Centre (Maiselova 15) and all included sites

✡️ Official Jewish Museum Guided Tour
📍 Starts: 10:30 am & 16:00 at Jewish Museum Information Centre (Maiselova 15)
🌐 Buy tickets online to avoid queues
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at Information Centre (Maiselova 15) and all included sites

🕎 Private & Specialized Tours

Jewish Quarter Walking Tour (GetYourGuide)
🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours
🌐 View tour & buy tickets

 Jewish Heritage Tour (Private - Prague - Guide.com)
🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours
🌐 View tour & buy tickets

 iVisitPrague Custom Private Tour
🕒 Duration: 3.5 hours
🧭 Fully customizable itinerary
🌐 View tour & buy tickets

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🍴Where to eat : 

(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).

 

[$]

Bakeshop Café Bistro (Bakery, café & bistro with fresh pastries) 4.4 ⭐

Alforno Focacceria Italiana  (Italian Bakery & Café) 4.5 ⭐ 

 

[$]

Kafka Hummus Café (Middle Eastern Café) 4.2 ⭐ 

James Joyce Irish Pub (Traditional Irish Pub in Prague) 4.6 ⭐ 

Kozlovna Apropos (Czech Restaurant & Pub) 4.5 ⭐

 

[$$]

Finestrina  (Italian Bistro & Deli) 4.5 ⭐

Gruzie Restaurant (Authentic Georgian Cuisine & Live Music) 4.6 ⭐

La Bodeguita del Medio  (Cuban Restaurant & Cocktail Bar with Live Music) 4.3 ⭐

 

[$$]

5th District Restaurant & Cafe by King Solomon (Traditional Jewish Cuisine) 4.0 ⭐

La Finestra in Cucina (Upscale Italian Dining) 4.6 ⭐