The Old Synagogue on Szeroka Street in Kazimierz is a place that sparks the imagination — not only as an architectural monument, but as a space of history and memory. Its Gothic-Renaissance form and an interior full of museum artifacts tell the story of centuries of life in Krakow’s Jewish community. On holiday days, when Kazimierz is alive with special events, the synagogue’s interior and the nearby square gain a particular, almost intimate atmosphere that visitors often describe as “unforgettable.”
Keep in mind that today the Old Synagogue functions primarily as a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow with an exhibition dedicated to the history and culture of Krakow’s Jews. That is why during religious holidays, cultural events or festivals the place combines education with reflection, and sometimes with a concert or workshop, which intensifies visitors’ impressions.
If you’re looking for an experience that combines architectural beauty with deeper historical and cultural context — on special days the Old Synagogue offers that in a nutshell: the sound of music, the scent of old cabinets, the texture of stone and the stories from display cases make moments here stay with a visitor for a long time.
The permanent exhibition at the Old Synagogue presents objects connected with ritual life, everyday life and the history of Krakow’s Jewish community. In the display cases you will see, among other items, synagogue furnishings, documents and ritual objects that explain the meaning and customs of Jewish holiday observance.
During festivals — especially the Jewish Culture Festival — the Old Synagogue often hosts lectures, concerts and temporary exhibitions. At those times some rooms are used for artistic and educational programs - it’s a great opportunity to feel Kazimierz’s festive pulse and see how tradition interweaves with contemporary culture.
On cultural holiday days that are not strictly religious, for example festival days, a visit to the Old Synagogue can be nicely complemented by a walk around the area: the Remuh Synagogue and its cemetery, Izaak Synagogue, Tempel Synagogue and numerous museums and galleries create a coherent route that helps to understand the site's historical and social context.
The liveliest days in Kazimierz traditionally fall during the Jewish Culture Festival, which usually takes place in June. At that time concerts, workshops and themed walks appear on the streets and in synagogues. Programs often include guided tours that start at the Old Synagogue, temporary exhibitions in the branch and klezmer concerts.
If you want a festive atmosphere with music and accompanying events, plan your visit for festival days. Remember, however, that these dates are busier and it’s wise to book tickets in advance or arrive when doors open. If you prefer peace and reflection, choose days outside the festival peak — you can still find interesting exhibitions or short educational events then.
It’s also a good idea to follow the Historical Museum of Krakow and the festival’s official announcements, because some events require tickets or prior registration.
The first impression is the silence within the walls: despite the city noise on Szeroka Street, inside the building a different rhythm prevails. The echo of footsteps, soft light coming through the round-topped windows and the scent of old wood and paper create a unique mood. During a concert or lecture the synagogue’s acoustics can move even people who don’t normally seek out Jewish music.
On holiday days add singing, klezmer instruments or recitations — these are moments when history stops being just dry descriptions in display cases and becomes a living story. For many visitors it is precisely this blend of knowledge and emotion that makes time spent in the Old Synagogue “unforgettable.”
Don’t forget to look at the details: the interior columns, fragments of restored polychromes, inscriptions and ritual symbols hidden among the exhibits. These small images often return in memory after you go home as symbols of the whole visit.
The Old Synagogue operates as a branch of the Museum of Krakow and has regular opening hours. It’s worth checking current hours and visiting rules before your trip, because the museum reserves the right to make changes, close temporarily or designate free admission days. The last entry for individual visitors usually takes place about 30 minutes before closing; groups often have slightly earlier limits.
Tickets can be purchased at the museum ticket office or online via the museum’s ticketing service. Sometimes Monday is a free-entry day, but rules and promotions can change, so it’s always best to verify details before you arrive. Larger groups should reserve their visit in advance.
If you travel with mobility limitations, check accessibility of particular spaces — some historic interiors may have architectural barriers. The museum usually provides information about available accommodations on its site or by contact.
Kazimierz abounds in places that perfectly complement a visit to the Old Synagogue. We recommend choosing venues with good reviews and a regional or Mediterranean touch that suit the neighborhood’s atmosphere. Hamsa on Plac Nowy is a restaurant with Israeli cuisine and hummus in the starring role — often praised for taste and ambiance. Mleczarnia nearby offers a cozy interior or a garden and is ideal for coffee and cake after a walk. For those wanting to try Jewish cuisine, consider Ariel, which blends menu and Kazimierz atmosphere.
If you’re looking for accommodation — the best choices are small, well-rated places within Kazimierz or right next to it (Old Town). That way an evening walk along Szeroka and returning after an event will be convenient. Book early during the festival season, as rooms can fill up quickly.
Remember that restaurants in the area can be busy on festival days and weekends — reserve a table or come outside peak hours.
Visitors often focus only on the main streets of Kazimierz and miss the museum’s details — yet those details enrich the story of the place. Take time to see the exhibition inside the Old Synagogue; don’t limit your visit to taking photos from the outside.
Another common mistake is not checking opening hours and rules for special days. During festivals some spaces may be closed to individual visitors or accessible only with an event ticket. Check the schedule and buy tickets in advance if you plan to attend a concert or workshop.
Many visitors fail to respect the silence and reflective character of certain events. If you attend a lecture or concert, behave considerately and silence your phone — this helps others fully experience the moment.
The Old Synagogue is one of the oldest preserved synagogues in Poland and for centuries was the center of religious and social life for Krakow’s Jews. During reconstruction in the 16th century the work was overseen by a builder of Italian origin, which influenced some decorations and architectural form.
Less obvious to tourists is that the synagogue’s display cases contain everyday objects that tell about the private side of community life — small items that build empathy and help understand traditions.
During festivals and cultural events the synagogue can function as a concert hall or exhibition space — this is how history connects with living contemporary culture and the place acts as a bridge between past and present.
Do I need to reserve tickets in advance? - If you plan to attend a concert or workshop during the festival, reservations are recommended. For regular visits it’s wise to check availability online, especially in season.
Is the Old Synagogue an active synagogue? - The building serves a museum and exhibition role; it is not regularly used for worship, though it hosts cultural events and occasional meetings.
How much time should I allow for a visit? - A normal visit and a calm viewing of the exhibition takes about 45-90 minutes. If you join a lecture, concert or workshop, plan more time.
Are there places to leave luggage? - Smaller bags can be left at some local service points, but for larger suitcases it’s better to use luggage storage at a bigger museum facility or at your hostel/hotel.
Come with an open mind and a willingness to listen to stories. Read the display descriptions, ask museum staff questions or — if you want a deeper experience — take a professional guided tour. Information about private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz and her offer is available on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website.
Plan your route: start at the Old Synagogue, continue to Remuh and its cemetery, visit the Tempel and Popper synagogues, then rest in one of the recommended cafés or restaurants on Szeroka and Plac Nowy. This sequence helps you gradually enter the topic and gives time for reflection.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others prepare for a beautiful visit. If you want more personal guiding through Kazimierz and the Old Synagogue, consider contacting Małgorzata Kasprowicz via her website. We wish you unforgettable moments in Krakow!
