This synagogue in Kazimierz is the oldest left standing in Poland. It was built in the 15th century, and functioned as both a synagogue and a fortress. You can still see the defensive walls today. It went through a couple of renovations until the Nazi invasion of 1939. There's a memorial that marks the site where 30 Poles were executed right outside the building.
It's been repurposed into a branch of the Museum that specializes in the history & culture of the Jewish community in Kraków. It's worth a visit, and especially if you want to learn more about Judaism. There are exhibits of ceremonial relics used during holidays and festivals, as well as family ritual artifacts from events such as birth, marriage, and death. The history of the synagogue is also on display. There's a gift store inside the museum.
The painting of Shylock and Jessica really stood out to me the most. It was painted in 1887 by Marcin Gottlieb.
Check it all out as you're exploring Kazimierz. There's so much to see and do in this part of the city. read more