Žatec Synagogue

The Žatec Synagogue and the adjacent Rabbi’s House stand as enduring symbols of the rich Jewish heritage in Žatec, with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages. In the early 18th century, the site was occupied by a prominent bourgeois house, renowned as one of the most expensive properties in the town. Recognizing the need for a larger place of worship due to their rapidly growing community, the Jewish religious community purchased the building and its garden in 1869, as the provisional synagogue could no longer accommodate them.

Designed by Johann W. Staniek from Prague, the new synagogue drew inspiration from the architectural style of the Spanish Synagogue in Prague, embracing the so-called Moorish style. Completed in 1872, the Žatec Synagogue became the second-largest of its kind in the country.

Tragedy struck on the night of November 9th to 10th, 1938, when the Nazis set the synagogue on fire during the Kristallnacht pogroms. Despite a swift response, the interior was destroyed entirely. Plans to demolish both the synagogue and the Rabbi’s House were fortunately halted due to high financial costs. During World War II, the Rabbi’s House served various purposes, including a field hospital and an auxiliary school, while the synagogue was later converted into a warehouse. In the 1970s, apartments were constructed in the Rabbi’s House, but eventually, both buildings fell into disrepair and were left unused.

A new chapter began at the end of 2012 when private owner Daniel Černý from Chomutov acquired the synagogue and the Rabbi’s House. Through his long-standing efforts and with funding secured from the IROP program, along with his own financial contributions, a complete reconstruction of both monuments was achieved by the end of 2023.

Today, the renovated buildings serve as vibrant cultural spaces and a museum. The permanent exhibition in the Rabbi’s House provides visitors with deep insights into the history of Jews in Žatec. Other areas are utilized for exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances. These restorations preserve significant architectural heritage and revitalize the Jewish community’s historical narrative in Žatec for future generations.