Orthodox synagogue in Prešov It is one of the most significant Jewish monuments in Slovakia. It is situated within the historic grounds of the former Orthodox Jewish community and continues to serve its original purpose to this day. Dating from the late 19th century, the building is notable not only for its architecture but also for its well-preserved interior and its significant exhibition on Jewish culture.
A Moorish-style synagogue
The synagogue was built in 1898 by Kollacsek and Wirth based on a design inspired by the synagogue in Tokaj. The two-storey building was designed in the Neo-Romanesque-Moorish style, complemented by a number of oriental-inspired elements. From the outside, it appears rather austere, but the interior conceals a richly decorated space.
The following, in particular, deserve attention ornamental murals, which, despite damage to the building, have been preserved in their striking colours and original design. Among the most valuable elements of the interior décor is the artistically crafted tabernacle, known as Yom Kippur, and the almemor – the place designated for reading the Torah.
A place linked to the history of the Jews of Prešov
The Orthodox synagogue was used for religious purposes until the Second World War. In 1942 Its surroundings became a gathering place for the Jews of Prešov prior to their deportations. From there, thousands of the town’s inhabitants were taken away on transport convoys.
During the occupation of Prešov, the German army used the building as stables and garages. After the war, the synagogue underwent the necessary repairs and its interior was refurbished. In October 1948, it was ceremonially rededicated.
The tragic events of the Holocaust are also commemorated by a memorial to more than six thousand Holocaust victims from Prešov and the surrounding area, which was unveiled in the courtyard of the synagogue in August 1991.
Barkány’s collection of Judaica
The synagogue also includes Barkány’s collection of Judaica, which is on display in the women’s gallery. The exhibition showcases objects relating to Jewish culture and religious life and forms part of the Museum of Jewish Culture.
The synagogue is also part of a historic complex of Jewish communal institutions, which began to take shape outside the city walls from the 1880s onwards. In addition to the prayer hall, the complex also included other buildings associated with the functioning of the Orthodox Jewish community.
The Orthodox Synagogue today
The synagogue is still used today as prayer room and forms a living part of Prešov’s Jewish cultural heritage. Its preserved architectural features, historical furnishings and museum exhibition make it an important venue for learning about the history of the Jewish community in eastern Slovakia.
A visit to the Orthodox Synagogue offers an insight not only into 19th-century architecture, but also into the history of a community that played a significant role in the social life of Prešov. It is a historic site that brings together architecture, religion, culture and the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Gallery
Information
The Orthodox synagogue in Prešov forms part of a larger complex that was built to meet the needs of the local Jewish community. The surrounding area contained buildings that served the community’s religious, educational and social life.
The interior of the synagogue is remarkable for its well-preserved decoration and details, which give a sense of what a Jewish sacred space looked like at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Particular attention should be paid to Yom Kippur, which is one of the most striking features of the interior.
The women’s gallery features Barkány’s collection of Judaica. The collection is linked to Eugen Bárkány, a prominent collector and documentarian of Jewish cultural heritage in Slovakia.
The synagogue is also a place of solemn remembrance. The courtyard features a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust from Prešov and the surrounding area, which was unveiled in 1991.
When visiting, it is advisable to check the current entry requirements and whether guided tours are available, as the building is also an active place of worship.
