The story of this place
Completed around 1270 in early Gothic style, the Old-New Synagogue — Staronová synagoga — is the oldest synagogue in Europe still holding regular services after more than 750 years. Legend says Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel moulded a Golem from Vltava clay in the 16th century to defend the ghetto, and that its dormant form still lies in the sealed attic, which superstition forbids entering. The building's double-nave hall, five-rib vaults and iron grille remain almost untouched; a red banner granted by Charles IV hangs inside. Because its floor sits below street level, worshippers descend to pray, recalling the psalm 'Out of the depths I cry to you.'