Erfurt Old Synagogue – Erfurt : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Erfurt is an ancient city in Germany with plenty of interesting facts, information, and a travel guide for exploring its historical sites. Most notably, the Old Synagogue of Erfurt is one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Europe. Dating back to the 13th century, the synagogue is a stunning testament to the perseverance of the city’s Jewish population despite the tumultuous history of the region. Learn about its fascinating past and get tips for exploring this incredible structure when you visit. Then dive deeper into Erfurt’s rich cultural heritage with information about its other must-see attractions. It’s your ultimate guide to discovering Erfurt’s vibrant past and present!

Interesting Facts About Erfurt Old Synagogue – Erfurt

Old Synagogue was built in 1165, making it the oldest remaining Jewish synagogue in Europe. It is thought that the original building was destroyed in a pogrom in 1298. The current Erfurt Old Synagogue was construction completed in 1340 and is thought to have been fairly unchanged since its original construction. The synagogue is still in use today and is a major tourist attraction and site of worship for the local Jewish community. It is open to the public for visitations and tours, however, prayers are not allowed in the building. It is also home to regular religious and educational programs.

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History & Information About Erfurt Old Synagogue – Erfurt

, Germany

The Erfurt Old Synagogue is one of the oldest surviving Jewish buildings in Europe and is believed to have been built in the 11th century. It is located in the German city of Erfurt, which is near Frankfurt am Main. The synagogue was largely destroyed during the Nazi era but has now been faithfully restored.

The synagogue is built in the Romanesque style of the time, and its original structure has survived largely intact. Its most remarkable feature is its stepped facade and five-story tower, which was added in 1220. Inside, the synagogue contains two large halls, a large, semi-circular niche, and a small chapel with a high ceiling.

Throughout its history, the Erfurt Synagogue has been a symbol and center of Jewish faith and culture in the city. As early as the 1500s, Jews from other parts of Europe settled in the city, attracted by its tolerant religious climate. The Jewish community of Erfurt was one of the most influential and prosperous in central Europe before World War II. The synagogue was used for daily and holiday services by the Jewish community until 1938, when the Nazis suppressed and persecuted the Jews of the city.

The surviving parts of the synagogue were heavily damaged during a wave of Kristallnacht (“Night of Broken Glass”) pogroms in November 1938, and many of its stones were used for other purposes. The building was further damaged during the Allied bombardment of the city in World War II. After the war, the synagogue was abandoneduntil it was purchased in 1989 by the city of Erfurt and began to undergo extensive restoration work. The restored synagogue was re-opened in 1993 and is now used as a cultural and religious center, with community events, concerts, and other activities taking place there. The synagogue is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Jewish people, and it serves as an important reminder of the often-forgotten history of Jewish life in Germany.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Erfurt Old Synagogue – Erfurt

1. Start your visit at the Domplatz, located in the heart of the city and home to many of the city’s most important cultural and religious landmarks. Here you’ll find the Erfurt Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, as well as the nearby St Marien Church.

2. From the square, make your way to the old synagogue, known as the Erfurter Synagogue. This is one of the most valuable examples of a classical synagogue, and its main object of interest, the high-rise Gothic tower, dates back to the late 15th century.

3. Take a guided tour of the synagogue to gain insight into Jewish history and culture, and to get a close-up view of the site’s historical architecture. As well as the impressive tower, you’ll see several other buildings that have been connected to the synagogue over the course of history.

4. Make your way over to the Krambaustrasse, a shopping street that has been in existence since the 17th century. Here you’ll find many stalls selling traditional wares, such as colourful textiles, ornaments, and toys.

5. Head to the Fischmarkt, located in the old Jewish quarter, for a delicious meal in a traditional setting.

6. Visit the nearby Market Hall, built in the early 19th century. Here you’ll find a selection of both traditional and modern stalls, selling a wide range of products, from fresh produce to antiques.

7. Before you leave, take a stroll across the Krämerbrücke, a wooden bridge over the River Gera that dates back to the 12th century. This is officially recognised as the longest bridge of its kind in Europe, so make sure you get a photo!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Erfurt Old Synagogue – Erfurt

Q: What is the Erfurt Old Synagogue?
A: The Erfurt Old Synagogue is an historic synagogue located in Erfurt, Germany. It dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest surviving examples of religious architecture in Europe.

Q: Is the Erfurt Old Synagogue still in use?
A: No, the Erfurt Old Synagogue is no longer in use as a synagogue. It is now mostly used as a museum and memorial to the Jewish community that once inhabited Erfurt.

Q: What kind of activities can people do at the Erfurt Old Synagogue?
A: The Erfurt Old Synagogue is a popular site for public visits. Some of the most common activities include guided tours, lectures on Jewish history, and special educational programs.

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