The history of Kraków is inseparably linked to the history of Kraków Jews who initially lived in the centre of Kraków, in today’s St Anna Street. In the 15th century, Jews slowly began to move to Kazimierz which today is one of the most unique testimonies of Jewish heritage in Poland and, at the same time, a vibrant lively cultural centre. The route passes along the streets and across the squares of Kazimierz. Leading to temples and necropolises it simultaneously shows historic heritage and is a testimony to history.
At the end of the 15th century, Kazimierz, then a separate town, became a centre of two cultures – Christian and Jewish. Many of the historical monuments (especially religious ones) testifying to the splendour of both cultures have been preserved until present times. We begin the Jewish Heritage Route by the map in Wolnica Square, the former Christian Market Square. Passing Corpus Christi Church we enter the heart of the Jewish religious and cultural life, Szeroka Street. The highlight of the route, Szeroka Street, houses as many as three temples. The most precious of them is the 15th century Old Synagogue (Alte Schul), being the oldest remnant of Jewish architecture in Poland. Its beginnings reach back to the 15th century. Currently it houses a branch of the Historical Museum of Kraków devoted to the history and culture of Kraków Jews. Renaissance Remuh Synagogue (mid 16th century) is the smallest of all the synagogues situated in Kazimierz. Adjacent to it is a historical Jewish cemetery which is even older. It is an extremely interesting sacral and architectural unit, devastated during World War II, restored in the years 1956-1960 and today is one of the most important Jewish necropolia in Europe. It contains the tomb of Rabbi Moses Isserles (died in 1572) – the destination of pilgrimages of Jews from all over the world. The Tempel Synagogue was built in Miodowa Street at the beginning of the second half of the 19th century for the Progressive Israel Society. Having passed by the 17th century Kupa Synagogue we reach the Isaac Synagogue in Jakuba Street, built in the years 1638-1644. By the High Synagogue, dating back to the end of the 16th century we are again in Szeroka Street, where we can have a look at the house of Helena Rubinstain, the one who started the cosmetic industry. |
