The Spanish Synagogue

Španělská synagoga (Spanish Synagogue) is the youngest of Prague’s synagogues but arguably the most visually stunning. Built in 1868 on the site of the oldest synagogue in Prague (the demolished Altschul), it takes its name from its Moorish Revival architecture, inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. Inside, the richly decorated interior stuns with gilded stucco arabesques, geometric patterns, and stained-glass windows, creating a kaleidoscope of color and light. The overall atmosphere is one of elegance, in stark contrast to the simplicity of other synagogues in Josefov.

During World War II, the synagogue was used by the Nazis to store confiscated Jewish property, part of their plan to create a so-called “Museum of the Extinct Race.” Although the building wasn’t seriously damaged during the war, it suffered decades of neglect during the communist era. Thanks to extensive restoration by the Jewish Museum in Prague In the 1990s, the synagogue has been returned to its former splendor.

Today, it is part of the Jewish Museum in Prague and hosts exhibitions on the history of Jews in the Czech lands from the 18th century to the present day. It also serves as a concert venue, where the lavish acoustics and atmosphere enhance performances of Jewish and classical music.

Just outside, don’t miss the striking bronze statue of Franz Kafka—an homage to Prague’s most famous Jewish writer, depicting Kafka riding on the shoulders of a headless, handless figure. The design was inspired by Kafka's early short story "Description of a Struggle." This artwork is situated close to where Kafka lived and worked, and was commissioned by the Franz Kafka Society to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the writer’s birth.

The Spanish Synagogue stands not only as a place of worship but also as a celebration of Jewish cultural and artistic achievements.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Don’t miss the stunning ceiling! Look up to admire the intricate, geometric ceiling patterns in gold and turquoise. It’s one of the most spectacular examples of synagogue interior design anywhere in Europe.

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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
      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

🎶 Concerts
🕒 Performances usually start at 20:00
🌐 Check concert schedule and buy tickets

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🍴Where to eat : 

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

 

[$] 

- Alforno Focacceria Italiana (Italian Bakery & Café) 4.5 ⭐ 

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

 

[$] 

- Kafka Hummus Café (Middle Eastern Café) 4.2 ⭐ 

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

- Pastacaffé Vězeňská (Italian-style café with homemade pasta & desserts) 4.5 ⭐

 

[$$] 

- La Casa Latina (Vibrant Latin American Fusion & Grill) 4.2 ⭐ 

- Food Lab (Modern European Fusion) 4.2 ⭐ 

- Masna Yami Sushi (Modern Japanese Cuisine with Asian Fusion) 4.7 ⭐ 

 

[$$] 

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

- Divinis (Italian Cuisine) 4.5 ⭐