Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
Prague, Czech Republic · Neighborhood
About Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, is one of the most culturally significant and best-preserved Jewish heritage sites in Europe. Enclosed within the surrounding Old Town, it survived centuries of turbulent history, including the devastation of World War II. Today, visitors come from across the globe to reflect on its poignant memorials, historic synagogues, and storied past.
Don't miss
- Wander through the Old Jewish Cemetery, where thousands of moss-covered tombstones are densely layered across centuries of burials.
- Marvel at the intricate Moorish-style interior and dazzling gilded stucco work inside the Spanish Synagogue.
- Step inside the 13th-century Old-New Synagogue, one of Europe's oldest active synagogues and the legendary resting place of the Golem.
- Visit the Pinkas Synagogue to view the moving memorial inscribed with nearly 80,000 names of Czech Holocaust victims.
Plan your visit
Visit early in the morning on a weekday to experience a quiet, reflective atmosphere before larger tour groups arrive. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures ideal for exploring the historic quarter on foot.
Admission requires a paid ticket covering the Jewish Museum sites, with combined options that include the independently managed Old-New Synagogue. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to skip queues at the ticket desks.
Josefov is located just a five-minute walk northwest of Old Town Square. Alternatively, take metro Line A or tram 17 or 18 directly to the Staroměstská station.
Tips for visiting
- Remember that all Jewish Museum sites and the Old-New Synagogue are closed on Saturdays for Shabbat as well as on Jewish holidays.
- Men and boys are required to cover their heads in synagogues and the cemetery, with disposable paper kippahs provided at the entrance.
- Photography is restricted inside several synagogue interiors, particularly around sensitive memorial spaces.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as the paths inside the Old Jewish Cemetery and along surrounding streets consist of uneven cobblestones.
- Rent an audio guide or join an accredited walking tour to appreciate the profound context behind the neighborhood monuments.
Josefov (Jewish Quarter) FAQ
Why are the sites closed on Saturdays?
The monuments remain active elements of Prague's Jewish community and strictly observe the Jewish Sabbath each Saturday. They also close during major Jewish religious holidays throughout the year. Be sure to check the calendar and schedule your visit between Sunday and Friday.
What is the legend of the Golem connected to Josefov?
Legend says that the 16th-century Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel created a giant clay being known as the Golem to defend the Jewish community from persecution. According to local folklore, the deactivated remains of the Golem still rest in the attic of the Old-New Synagogue.
Can I view the Old Jewish Cemetery without buying a ticket?
Entry inside the grounds of the cemetery requires an official Jewish Museum circuit ticket. You can catch a limited glimpse through street-level gates, but a ticket is essential to walk the paths and see the ancient tombstones up close.
Is the Jewish Quarter accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
While neighborhood streets have standard sidewalks, many historic synagogues feature narrow doorways, steps, and raised thresholds. The Old Jewish Cemetery path is uneven and unpaved in parts, which can present challenges for wheelchair users and strollers.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: USA-Reiseblogger, Julius_Silver on Pixabay.