High Synagogue Kraków
A 16th-century historic synagogue in Krakow's Kazimierz, now housing a bookshop, notable for its unique architecture and past grandeur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bookstore likely open, fewer crowds.
High Synagogue Kraków
Best Time
Bookstore likely open, fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century historic synagogue in Krakow's Kazimierz, now housing a bookshop, notable for its unique architecture and past grandeur.
"A poignant reminder of Jewish heritage, its exterior architecture and bookstore offer a glimpse into its storied past."
Manage Access Expectations
Interior access is rare. Focus on exterior architecture & the bookshop.
Explore the Jewish Quarter
Visit alongside other Kazimierz sites for a fuller Jewish heritage experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Admire the 16th-century facade, reinforced buttresses, and Renaissance portal of this significant Jewish heritage site.
Jewish Bookstore
Browse a selection of books related to Jewish culture and history within the synagogue's foyer.
Aron Kodesh Fragments
See remnants of the oldest and largest Aron Kodesh (holy ark) in Poland, a testament to its past grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Its Current Use
Appreciate Its History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting the Jewish Quarter of Kraków tomorrow - is anything especially worth a visit?
Manage Access Expectations
Interior access is rare. Focus on exterior architecture & the bookshop.
Explore the Jewish Quarter
Visit alongside other Kazimierz sites for a fuller Jewish heritage experience.
Note the Exterior Details
Appreciate the facade, buttresses, and portal; these are the main accessible features.
Check Bookstore Hours
The Jewish bookstore is the primary point of entry; verify its operating times.
Tips
from all over the internet
Manage Access Expectations
Interior access is rare. Focus on exterior architecture & the bookshop.
Explore the Jewish Quarter
Visit alongside other Kazimierz sites for a fuller Jewish heritage experience.
Note the Exterior Details
Appreciate the facade, buttresses, and portal; these are the main accessible features.
Check Bookstore Hours
The Jewish bookstore is the primary point of entry; verify its operating times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors acknowledge the High Synagogue's historical significance and unique architecture, particularly its 16th-century facade and the remnants of its Aron Kodesh. However, many note its neglected exterior and the frequent inaccessibility of the interior, with access usually limited to a Jewish bookstore.
"This synagogue, built in the 16th century, is no longer used as intended. The synagogal is not open to the public and it looks like there is now a Jewish bookstore, which was not open during our visit. We were able to walk inside the foyer area, but that was the total extent of our visit. There is also a brass memorial plaque on the right side of the door."
Thomas B
"Please note it’s not an active shul
I went on a trip with Olami and we had the privilege of converting the upstairs into a shul and praying spirited Kabbalat Shabbat, which I will not forget 🙏"
Hannah Geller
"The High Synagogue is no longer in active use and houses a bookshop nowadays."
Gitty Rosenberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The High Synagogue is located in the historic Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz) of Krakow. It's easily accessible by foot from other major Kazimierz attractions. You can also reach Kazimierz by tram or bus from the city center. Look for stops like 'Plac Wolnica' or 'Starowiślna'.
Parking in Kazimierz can be challenging and is often paid. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city center. If driving, look for paid parking lots on the outskirts of Kazimierz.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You typically do not need a ticket to view the exterior of the High Synagogue. Entry to the Jewish bookstore located inside may be free, but access to the historical prayer hall is usually restricted and not open to the public.
The High Synagogue itself is not open for tours. However, the Jewish bookstore housed within it has its own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check locally or online for the bookstore's current schedule.
Generally, visitors can only access the foyer area where the Jewish bookstore is located. The main prayer hall and historical interior are usually inaccessible to the public due to its current condition and use.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the 16th-century facade, reinforced buttresses, and the Renaissance portal. Inside the foyer, you can visit the Jewish bookstore. Fragments of the Aron Kodesh might be visible, but the main interior is typically off-limits.
No, the High Synagogue is no longer used as an active place of worship. It has been devastated and primarily used for storage after WWII, and now houses a bookshop.
Built in the 16th century, it was one of the richest synagogues in Kazimierz and unique for having its men's prayer hall on the first floor. It's a significant monument of Jewish history in Poland.
🎫 📚 Bookshop & History
The bookshop typically offers literature related to Jewish history, culture, religion, and the Holocaust, catering to visitors interested in learning more about the Jewish heritage of Krakow and Poland.
Official guided tours of the interior are generally not available due to inaccessibility. However, many general tours of the Jewish Quarter in Krakow will include a stop at the High Synagogue to discuss its history and exterior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Cultural Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
During World War II, the synagogue, like many other Jewish sites, suffered significant devastation. Post-war, it was primarily used for storage, leading to a decline in its condition. Conservation efforts have revealed fragments of wall paintings and inscriptions from the 1860s reconstruction, offering glimpses into its past splendor. The most remarkable surviving element is the stone Aron Kodesh (holy ark), considered the oldest and largest in Poland, adorned with grotesque ornaments and griffin imagery. While the interior is usually inaccessible, these preserved elements underscore the synagogue's historical and artistic importance.
Visiting Today: Expectations vs. Reality
Travelers often note the synagogue's neglected exterior, expressing sadness at the state of preservation and hoping for future renovations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit