Old Town Synagogue (Synagoga Staromiejska) description and photos - Poland: Rzeszow (Topic)

Old Town Synagogue (Synagoga Staromiejska) description and photo - Poland: Rzeszow. Detailed information about the attraction. Description, photographs and a map showing the nearest significant objects. The name in English is Synagoga Staromiejska.

Photo and description

The Old Town Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues located in the Subcarpathian Voivodeship in the city of Rzeszow. The synagogue was built in 1610, and after 50 years it was completely destroyed by the strongest fire. The temple was rebuilt in 1661, but a new fire burned down the synagogue again in 1739. Originally built in the Renaissance style, the building of rubble and bricks lost its original appearance after each restoration. In the 18th century, a defensive tower was added, which is currently the only trace of the city's defenses. In the middle of the 19th century, an attic was built on the west side, extending the upper floor. On the ground floor there was a rectangular vestibule, above which there was a women's section. In the 50s of the 20th century, the stairs and the women's chapel were demolished. The main prayer hall was richly and exquisitely decorated, but at present nothing of the original decoration has survived.

During World War II, the synagogue was destroyed by the Nazis and remained abandoned until 1947, when the roof sagged. After a violent storm, the roof and wall of the synagogue collapsed. In 1949, by the decision of the governor, the reconstruction of the synagogue began. The Union of Polish Artists and Designers got down to work. Due to financial interruptions, construction work was carried out for several years and was completed in 1963.

The current owner of the Old Town Synagogue is the Jewish community of Krakow, and the synagogue operates an archive that collects and stores information about the history of Jews.

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Topic: Old Town Synagogue (Synagoga Staromiejska) description and photos - Poland: Rzeszow.