10 Things to Do in Spišská Nová Ves Synagogue, Slovakia
Located in the heart of Slovakia, the Spišská Nová Ves Synagogue is a stunning example of the country’s rich Jewish history. Built in the 17th century, the synagogue has been lovingly restored and is now open to the public. Here are 10 things to do in the synagogue to get the most out of your visit.
1. Explore the Exterior
The synagogue is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and the exterior is worth exploring. It’s made of white limestone and has a domed roof with a golden cupola. The building is surrounded by a garden with a fountain and benches.
2. Admire the Interior
The interior of the synagogue is just as impressive as the exterior. The walls are decorated with colorful frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and Jewish life. The ceiling is painted with a blue sky with stars and the floor is covered in marble.
3. Learn About the History
The synagogue was built in 1668 and was the main house of worship for the Jewish community in Spišská Nová Ves until World War II. After the war, the building was used as a warehouse until it was restored in the 1990s.
4. Visit the Museum
The synagogue is now home to a museum that tells the story of the Jewish community in Slovakia. It includes artifacts from the synagogue, including a Torah scroll, and photographs of the Jewish community before World War II.
5. Take a Tour
The synagogue offers guided tours of the building and the museum. The tour guides are knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have about the history and culture of the area.
6. Attend a Service
The synagogue still holds services, usually on Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re visiting on a weekend, you can attend the service and experience the synagogue as it was meant to be used.
7. Shop at the Gift Shop
The synagogue has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and books about the synagogue and Jewish culture. The shop also sells traditional Jewish foods like matzo and gefilte fish.
8. Enjoy a Meal at the Café
The synagogue also has a café where you can get a bite to eat. The café serves traditional Jewish dishes like cholent and kugel, as well as coffee and pastries.
9. Take a Walking Tour
The synagogue is located in the Jewish Quarter of Spišská Nová Ves, which is a great place to explore. The quarter is filled with historic buildings and monuments and you can take a walking tour to learn more about the area.
10. Visit Nearby Attractions
Spišská Nová Ves is a beautiful city and there are plenty of other attractions to visit. The city is home to a castle, a museum, and a number of churches. There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops to explore.
The Spišská Nová Ves Synagogue is a must-see for anyone visiting Slovakia. From exploring the beautiful architecture to learning about the history of the Jewish community, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So make sure to add the synagogue to your list of things to do in Slovakia!