The Remuh Synagogue and the adjoining cemetery on ul. Szeroka are among the most moving yet intimate stops on Kraków’s Jewish trail. These are not only historic buildings and tombstones but a living fragment of history — a place of prayer, memory and local tradition. It’s an ideal, calm walk for a couple who prefer a gentler pace rather than large tourist crowds.
Although both sites date back to the 16th century, their atmosphere is very personal: the synagogue is small and still serves religious functions, while the cemetery hides many grave stones, some richly decorated and very old. It’s a place to pause, talk and feel how important memorials and generational continuity are here.
The address is 40 Szeroka Street — in the middle of Kazimierz, a short walk from Plac Nowy. It’s easiest to reach by tram or on foot if you are already downtown; the walk from the Main Market Square takes around ten to twenty minutes of pleasant strolling.
The synagogue and cemetery may be closed on Saturdays (Shabbat) and on Jewish holidays — keep that in mind when planning your visit. Many visitors recommend coming in the morning or early afternoon, when the light is softer and crowds are smaller.
At the entrance, please observe appropriate dress and respectful behavior — on the cemetery do not step on tombstones, do not sit on graves and keep quiet. Men are often expected to cover their heads (yarmulkes/kippah); coverings are often available at the entrance, and it’s also good to have a light scarf to cover shoulders if needed.
Inside the synagogue notice the simplicity of the interior, preserved liturgical objects and fragments of historical architecture. The most famous site connected with this complex is the grave of the eminent rabbi Moses Isserles (known as Remu or ReMA) — his work had a major influence on Ashkenazi religious life.
In the cemetery observe different types of tombstones — from modest markers to richly carved monuments — and sections where fragments recovered after wartime damage were built into the wall, forming a kind of "memory wall." Walking the aisles gives a sense of the community’s deep history and culture.
Kazimierz is full of cafés and small restaurants, perfect for a conversation after sightseeing. If you’re looking for places with a relaxed atmosphere, consider nearby favorites such as Camelot Cafe in the Old Town or Meho Cafe and the well-known Ariel Restaurant in Kazimierz — each offers a pleasant setting for coffee, cake or a light meal. Choose a venue that fits your mood: a cozy café for a long chat or a restaurant for a proper lunch.
If you feel like trying Jewish-inspired or local Polish cuisine, Kazimierz has restaurants that serve dishes inspired by Jewish tradition as well as fresh, seasonal Polish fare. Look for places with good reviews and a calm atmosphere to round off your walk with a delicious meal.
Remuh is not only a place of memory but also a functioning community: services still take place in the synagogue and some spots in the cemetery are destinations for pilgrims. That continuity gives the site a particular atmosphere.
Many gravestones were found and partially reconstructed after periods of neglect in the 20th century — while walking you’ll see both rescued tombstones and fragments incorporated into walls as testimony to the past. It’s an interesting example of how memory is preserved through materials and architecture.
Arriving on Saturday — many visitors don’t check in advance and find the synagogue closed for Shabbat. Confirm opening hours before you go.
Disrespectful behavior at the cemetery — stepping on tombstones, loud conversations or ignoring photo restrictions in some areas. Best practice is to keep quiet and photograph discreetly, respecting those who are praying or visiting graves.
Wearing inappropriate clothing — while you don’t need formal attire, modesty is appreciated: very short shorts or bare shoulders can be seen as inappropriate in a sacred space.
Do you need to buy a ticket? — At certain times or during special exhibitions there may be a small entrance fee for the synagogue; the cemetery is usually free, but it’s good to have some small change for donations or potential fees.
Can you take photographs? — Photographing the site is allowed, but please be discreet and respectful. Avoid photographing people who are praying and do not use flash in sacred spaces.
Is this a good place for a couple without children? — Definitely yes — the site encourages calm conversation and reflection. The walk is not physically demanding and the atmosphere is intimate.
How much time should I allow? — To see the synagogue and cemetery at a relaxed pace plan 45–90 minutes, depending on how much you want to stop and look at details.
Do I need a head covering? — It may be recommended in some synagogues; kippot are often available at the entrance, but having a small scarf or shawl as a backup is useful.
Start with a gentle walk along ul. Szeroka: Remuh Synagogue and the cemetery, then continue towards ul. Miodowa and the Tempel Synagogue if you want to add more architecture to your route. Afterward stop at a nearby café for local cake and a good coffee. In the evening consider a stroll along the Vistula or dinner at one of the well-rated restaurants near Kazimierz for a relaxed end to the day.
If this text helped you plan your visit — share it with friends or on social media. If you’d like this trip to include more context, stories and details, I invite you to use the services of a private guide: Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Information about tours and contact details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Enjoy your visit and please show respect for these places of memory!
