Old Synagogue, Krakow

The Old Synagogue (Synagoga Stara), an Orthodox Jewish place of worship, graces the Kazimierz district of Kraków. Known as the Alta Shul in Yiddish, it stands as Poland's oldest remaining synagogue and ranks among the most cherished symbols of Jewish architectural heritage in Europe. Until the onset of the German invasion in 1939, it held paramount significance as one of the city's primary synagogues, serving as the central hub for religious, communal, and organizational activities within the Kraków Jewish community.

The Synagogue's construction date varies across sources, pointing to either 1407 or 1492. In 1570, the original edifice underwent reconstruction under the careful guidance of Italian architect Mateo Gucci. This refurbishment included fortifications such as an attic wall equipped with loopholes, high-set windows for defense, and robust masonry walls supported by hefty buttresses—a design inspired by military architecture. This makes the Old Synagogue a rare survivor, embodying the concept of a Polish fortress synagogue.

World War II witnessed the synagogue's utter devastation and plunder at the hands of the Germans. Its artistic treasures and Jewish artifacts were pillaged, and it suffered the indignity of being repurposed as a warehouse during the occupation. In 1943, its walls bore witness to the execution of 30 Polish hostages. However, the Old Synagogue was restored between 1956 and 1959 and now serves as a museum. Operating under the Historical Museum of Kraków, it holds a special focus on the city's Jewish heritage. The exhibitions are thematically organized to explore aspects such as birth, prayer rituals, dietary practices, divorce, and death.