Old-New Synagogue

Right here is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. Built in 1270, this Gothic building dominated the Jewish Quarter when most structures around it were single story. It was simply called the New Synagogue back then, to distinguish it from an even older one. But when newer synagogues appeared in the 16th century, this one became the Old New Synagogue. The building survived everything. In 1389, a pogrom killed 3,000 Jews, many seeking refuge inside these walls. Fires swept through the neighborhood. The Nazis wanted to preserve it for their planned museum of extinct races. Each time, it stood firm. Legend says angels brought stones from Jerusalem's destroyed Temple to build it on the condition they'd be returned when the Temple is rebuilt. Inside, the vaulting has 5 ribs instead of the typical 4 or 6, possibly to avoid forming a Christian cross. But the most famous story? Rabbi Judah Loew created the Golem here in the 16th century, a clay giant brought to life to protect the Jewish community. When its work was done, he deactivated it and hid the body in that attic above you.