Alte Synagoge

About

The Alte Synagoge in Erfurt is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe, with origins dating back to the 11th century. Hidden for centuries behind later buildings, it survived wars and upheavals, making it a rare witness to medieval Jewish life. Today, the restored synagogue houses a museum that presents the remarkable Erfurt Treasure, a collection of medieval coins, jewelry, and artifacts discovered nearby. Visitors can explore the building’s layered history, from its Romanesque foundations to Gothic expansions, and gain insight into the vibrant Jewish community that once thrived in Erfurt. As both an architectural monument and a cultural museum, the Alte Synagoge stands as a powerful reminder of resilience and continuity, offering a unique perspective on European heritage.

Erfurt Germany

Location

The Alte Synagoge (Old Synagogue) in Erfurt is located in the medieval old town, in a hidden courtyard between Waagegasse, Benediktsplatz, Michaelisstraße, and Fischmarkt. This remarkable building, dating back to around 1100, is one of the oldest preserved synagogues in Europe and was the center of Jewish life in medieval Erfurt. Nearby landmarks include the historic Merchants’ Bridge (Krämerbrücke), the town hall, and the Jewish Museum housed adjacent to the synagogue, which displays the Erfurt Treasure, one of the most important medieval Jewish finds. The site is part of the Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2023, reflecting its profound historical and cultural significance. The area combines medieval architecture and a quiet setting tucked away from the bustling old town streets, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Jewish heritage and history in Erfurt.