Maisel Synagogue

"The Maisel Synagogue, a significant architectural and cultural landmark in Prague, was initiated by the prominent Jewish businessman Mordechai Maisel in 1590. After acquiring the building site, Maisel received permission from Emperor Rudolf II to construct his own synagogue, aided by his influential position at the court. Designed by Judah Coref de Herz, the synagogue was completed by architect Josef Wahl and consecrated in 1592 during the celebration of Simchat Torah. For over a century, it stood as the largest and most impressive synagogue in the Jewish ghetto, notable for its elaborate furnishings. Upon Maisel's death in 1601, the synagogue and all his possessions were confiscated despite a privilege that allowed him to bequeath them to the Prague Jewish community. His will was eventually fulfilled after lengthy legal battles. The synagogue faced significant challenges throughout its history, including a devastating fire in 1689 that affected the entire ghetto, resulting in a hasty reconstruction that reduced its length by one-third. Another fire in 1754 caused further damage, leading to another reconstruction in 1864, guided by architect J. W. Wertmüller. Professor Alfred Grotte later modified the synagogue in the Gothic Revival style. During the Nazi occupation, the synagogue served as a storage facility for the properties of Czech Jewish communities. After World War II, it became part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. In the 1960s, it was restored, and from 1965 to 1988, it housed an exhibition of silver Judaica. However, due to deteriorating conditions and a lack of funds, it was closed for several years. The Velvet Revolution in the late 1980s paved the way for necessary renovations, and the synagogue reopened to the public in 1996, featuring an exhibition on Jewish history in the Czech lands from the 9th century to the Enlightenment. The exhibition was updated in 2014–2015 during a major reconstruction that aimed to restore the synagogue's appearance to its early 20th-century style, enhancing its decorative elements. The renovation also improved accessibility, making it more visitor-friendly."

"Mordechai Maisel, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist, began constructing the synagogue after acquiring the site in 1590 and receiving permission from Emperor Rudolf II. Architect Josef Wahl designed the synagogue based on Judah Coref de Herz's plans, and it was dedicated on Simchat Torah in 1592. "

"Built at the end of the 16th century at the initiative of the prominent patron of the Prague Jewish community, Mordechai Maisel. Throughout its existence, it underwent several renovations and is now in the neo-Gothic style."