Exploring the Historic Heart of Prague: A Guide to Old Town and the Jewish Quarter.

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is a city steeped in centuries of history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture. At the center of it all lies Old Town (Staré Město) and the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)—two neighborhoods that serve as living museums of Europe’s complex past and Prague’s rich legacy.

This comprehensive guide is tailored for travelers eager to walk through cobblestone lanes, admire Gothic spires, and uncover the stories behind synagogues, old squares, and astronomical clocks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or curious first-time visitor, the historic heart of Prague will leave a lasting impression.

A Brief History of Old Town and the Jewish Quarter

Old Town (Staré Město) dates back to the 9th century and became an important marketplace and trade center during the medieval period. The neighborhood quickly developed into the cultural and political hub of Bohemia.

Nestled within Old Town is Josefov, the Jewish Quarter. Its origins go back to the 13th century when Jewish communities were ordered to settle in a separate district. Despite centuries of segregation, pogroms, and hardship, Prague’s Jewish community left behind one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish historic sites.

Highlights of Old Town Prague

1. Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)

No visit to Prague is complete without standing in the Old Town Square, one of Europe’s most iconic public spaces. Surrounded by Gothic and Baroque facades, this square is constantly buzzing with activity—street musicians, local festivals, and horse-drawn carriages.

Must-see landmarks:

• The Astronomical Clock (Orloj) on the Old Town Hall Tower, where figures of the Apostles appear hourly.
• Church of Our Lady before Týn with its striking Gothic twin spires.
• St. Nicholas Church, a Baroque masterpiece often used for classical concerts.

Travel tip: Visit at the top of the hour to witness the clock’s performance, and climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views over the rooftops.

2. Charles Bridge Entrance

While the Charles Bridge itself connects Old Town with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), the Old Town Bridge Tower marks the eastern entrance. This Gothic structure once served as a defensive gate and offers another fantastic viewpoint over the Vltava River.

Don’t miss:

• Statue of Charles IV and his role in building the bridge.
• Early morning walks to beat the crowds and photographers.

3. Klementinum Complex

The Klementinum is a stunning Baroque complex that once housed the Jesuit university and now serves as part of the Czech National Library. A guided tour takes you through ornate halls, the Baroque Library, and up the Astronomical Tower.

Fun fact: The tower was used for meteorological measurements in the 18th century and still holds old instruments.

Exploring the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

The Jewish Quarter lies just north of the Old Town Square and contains one of the most complete sets of historic Jewish monuments in Europe.

1. The Jewish Museum in Prague

This museum isn’t housed in one building but is a network of historical synagogues and sites that together form the museum complex. A single ticket grants access to:

a. Maisel Synagogue

Exhibits showcasing the history of Jews in Bohemia and Moravia.

b. Pinkas Synagogue

A powerful Holocaust memorial, its walls bear the handwritten names of 80,000 Czech and Moravian Jews who perished during the Nazi occupation.

c. Old Jewish Cemetery

One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe (established in the 15th century), with over 12,000 tombstones layered atop each other due to limited space.

d. Klausen Synagogue and Ceremonial Hall

Displays relating to Jewish religious traditions, daily life, and burial customs.

Practical tip: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore all sites thoroughly, and wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths in the cemetery.

2. Old-New Synagogue (Staronová synagoga)

This Gothic synagogue, dating back to 1270, is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It’s still used for religious services and has a legendary aura—some even claim the Golem of Prague, created by Rabbi Loew, lies in its attic.

Architecture note: Look for the ribbed Gothic vaulting and ancient wooden pews.

3. Spanish Synagogue

Often regarded as the most beautiful synagogue in Prague, the Spanish Synagogue dazzles with Moorish Revival architecture, colorful stained glass, and gold detailing. It hosts exhibitions on 19th- and 20th-century Jewish history and frequent classical music concerts.

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

• Respect religious sites: Dress modestly and avoid using flash photography inside synagogues.
• Learn the stories: Hiring a guide for the Jewish Quarter can provide rich context and personal narratives.
• Avoid Fridays after sundown and Saturdays for visiting active synagogues due to Shabbat observance.

Where to Eat and Drink Nearby

Old Town:

• Maitrea: A peaceful vegetarian restaurant just behind the Týn Church.
• Lokál Dlouhááá: A Czech beer hall with traditional food in a modern setting.
• Mlejnice: Cozy spot known for its hearty Czech fare.

Jewish Quarter:

• King Solomon Restaurant: Offers kosher meals and traditional Jewish dishes.
• Chabad’s Dinitz Restaurant: A good option for kosher meat dishes and Shabbat meals.

Best Times to Visit

• Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal with fewer crowds and mild weather.
• Winter (December) transforms Old Town Square into a magical Christmas market.
• Early mornings or evenings are best for photographing landmarks without tourists.

Practical Information

• Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK). Some places accept euros but rates may be unfavorable.
• Language: Czech is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
• Tickets: The Jewish Museum ticket can be purchased online to skip the line.
• Transportation: Old Town and the Jewish Quarter are walkable. Use the metro (Line A, Staroměstská station) for access.

Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Journey

• Letná Park: A short walk from Old Town, offering a panoramic view of Prague’s bridges.
• Rudolfinum: A neoclassical concert hall near Josefov and home of the Czech Philharmonic.
• Museum of Decorative Arts: Features rotating exhibits on fashion, design, and historical craftsmanship.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Old Town and the Jewish Quarter of Prague is like walking through the pages of a living history book. From the ticking of the Astronomical Clock to the solemn quiet of the Old Jewish Cemetery, every street and structure tells a story of survival, tradition, faith, and beauty.

This historic heart of Prague is more than just a sightseeing district—it’s the soul of a city that has weathered empires, wars, and revolutions, yet still manages to enchant every visitor. Whether you spend a day or a week, Old Town and Josefov are bound to leave you with unforgettable memories.