Description of the attraction
The Remucha Synagogue, a synagogue located in Krakow, is the second oldest Jewish house of prayer. The synagogue and the adjacent cemetery are considered a unique example of Jewish architecture and sacred art of the 16th century. It is currently a functioning synagogue.
The synagogue was built in 1553 and is one of the oldest surviving synagogues in Poland, built on the site of a former wooden church. The wealthy merchant Israel Ben Joseph Moisesh Auerbach was the founder of the synagogue, and the construction was carried out under the direction of the architect Stanislav Baranek. Originally, the synagogue was named "New Synagogue". Over time, it acquired the name in honor of the son of the founder, an outstanding philosopher, rabbi and rector of the Krakow Academy Moyzes Islerles, known as rebe Moshe.
In 1557 the synagogue was burned down, but the construction of a new brick synagogue began already in 1558 under the leadership of Stanislav Lamb. Judging by the small size of the building, it probably served as a meetinghouse for a narrow circle of people: the founder's family and friends. In the 17th and 18th centuries, reconstructions took place, which changed the appearance of the synagogue. In 1829 the western wall of the synagogue was reconstructed; a women's prayer room appeared, which was connected to the main hall by two rectangular arcades.
The last pre-war work was carried out in 1933 under the direction of the architect Hermann Gutman. Technical works, roofing works were carried out, a men's toilet appeared, a women's room was repaired.
During the Second World War, the synagogue was badly damaged. After the war, in 1957, the synagogue was renovated thanks to the American Joint Distribution Committee Foundation.
The temple and the adjacent old cemetery are a unique complex of buildings of Jewish architecture and art that still serve as a religious center for the Jews of Krakow.
Since 2006, Boaz Pash has been the rabbi in the synagogue.
