The Old-New Synagogue, Prague

The Old-New Synagogue is the oldest site in Prague's Jewish Town. It is also the oldest active Synagogue in Europe. It has been the main synagogue for the Prague Jewish community for over 700 years. An old legend has it that in the attic lives the Golem, an artificial creature made of clay by the Rabbi Loew. The Golem was made to protect the Jewish community from threatened destruction by Rudolf II, Holy Roman Emperor in the late 16th century. And, as the tale goes, the Golem lies in wait in case need should arise again.