Jewish History of Mikulov – Synagogue, Cemetery and Unique Heritage

Jewish History of Mikulov – Synagogue, Cemetery and Unique Heritage

Mikulov is one of the most significant places of Jewish history in all of Central Europe. For centuries, one of the largest and most influential Jewish communities in Moravia flourished here. Today, you can visit an impressive synagogue, one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in the Czech Republic, and walk through the atmospheric streets of the former ghetto. Join us on a journey through time and discover the fascinating chapter in the history of this picturesque town.

Mikulov – Centre of Jewish Life in Moravia

The first written mention of Jews in Mikulov dates back to 1369, making the local Jewish community one of the oldest in Moravia. During the 16th century, the Jewish community in Mikulov began to grow rapidly, mainly due to the influx of refugees from Vienna and other Austrian cities from which Jews were being expelled.

The town became the seat of the Moravian Land Rabbinate and a centre of Jewish learning for all of Moravia. The Mikulov yeshiva (Jewish religious school) was one of the most prestigious in Central Europe and attracted students from far and wide.

The Jewish community in Mikulov had its own self-government, schools, hospital, poorhouse, and ritual bath (mikveh). The community reached its peak in the mid-19th century, when approximately 3,700 Jews lived here, comprising 39% of the town's population. Mikulov was thus one of the largest Jewish towns in the entire Habsburg Monarchy.

Upper Synagogue – The Largest Synagogue in Moravia

The Upper Synagogue in Mikulov is the largest preserved synagogue in Moravia and one of the most significant Jewish monuments in the Czech Republic. Its history dates back to the mid-16th century when the original wooden structure was replaced by a stone building.

The current appearance of the synagogue largely dates from reconstruction after the great fire of 1719. The building, in Polish Renaissance style with Baroque elements, impresses with its massive main hall with a vault supported by four columns. Originally, there was rich decoration including frescoes and stucco work, some of which has survived to this day.

The synagogue served its purpose until the Nazi occupation when it was severely damaged. After World War II, it underwent gradual reconstruction and today serves as a museum and cultural centre. Concerts, lectures, and exhibitions dedicated to Jewish culture and history are held here.

What you will see in the synagogue:

• ✓ Main prayer hall – an impressive space with original architectural elements
• ✓ Women's gallery – a separate area for women overlooking the main hall
• ✓ Permanent exhibition – dedicated to the history of the Jewish community in Mikulov
• ✓ Aron ha-kodesh – the holy ark for storing Torah scrolls (reconstruction)

Jewish Cemetery – A Place of Eternal Rest

The Jewish cemetery in Mikulov is one of the largest and oldest in the Czech Republic. It was founded in the first half of the 16th century (the oldest preserved tombstone dates from 1605) and spreads across a slope below Goat Castle over an area of more than 2 hectares.

The cemetery contains over 4,000 tombstones, many of which are true works of art. You will find richly decorated stone stelae with Hebrew inscriptions, symbols of the deceased's professions, and traditional Jewish motifs (crowned lions, blessing hands of the Kohanim, Levite pitchers).

The cemetery is divided into several sections according to the period of origin. The oldest tombstones in the upper part are often tilted or partially sunken into the ground, creating a unique romantic atmosphere. The entire complex is surrounded by a wall, and entry is possible through a gate from Synagogální Street.

Notable graves in the cemetery:

• ✓ Rabbi Mordechai Benet (1753–1829) – the most prominent Moravian Land Rabbi
• ✓ Rabbi Shmuel Shmelke Horowitz – an important Talmudist of the 18th century
• ✓ Members of the Auspitz family – a wealthy merchant family
• ✓ Tombstones with ohel – stone shelters over the graves of prominent rabbis

Walking Through the Jewish Quarter

The former Jewish ghetto in Mikulov lies between the square and the foot of Goat Castle. Narrow winding streets, old houses with typical passageways and cellars create a unique atmosphere that will transport you centuries back in time.

The Jewish quarter was separated from the rest of the town by gates that were closed at night. Jews were only allowed to live in this designated area, which led to dense development and characteristic architecture with narrow, tall houses and courtyards.

What you will discover on your walk:

• ✓ Husova Street – the main artery of the former ghetto with preserved houses
• ✓ Synagogální Street – the path to the synagogue and cemetery
• ✓ Original well – one of several public wells in the ghetto
• ✓ Houses with Hebrew inscriptions – original inscriptions have survived on some buildings
• ✓ Mikveh (ritual bath) – remains of the ritual bath near the synagogue

A walk through the Jewish quarter takes approximately 30–45 minutes. We recommend combining it with a visit to the synagogue and cemetery for a complete experience.

Dietrichstein Tomb – Connection to Jewish History

The Dietrichstein Tomb on Holy Hill is a Christian monument, but its story is closely intertwined with the Jewish history of Mikulov. The noble Dietrichstein family, which owned Mikulov from the 16th century, had an ambivalent relationship with the Jewish community – on one hand, they protected it and enabled its development; on the other, they collected high fees from it.

It was under the protection of the Dietrichsteins that the Jewish community in Mikulov was able to achieve its greatest prosperity. The Dietrichsteins recognized the economic benefits that Jewish merchants and craftsmen brought to the town and region.

Interesting fact: From the viewpoint at the Dietrichstein Tomb on Holy Hill, there is a beautiful view of the entire town, including the former Jewish quarter and cemetery. You can thus see at once the places where the daily life of the Jewish community took place for centuries.

Notable Personalities of Mikulov's Jewish Community

Mikulov was home to numerous personalities who significantly influenced the Jewish world:

Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel (1512/1525–1609) – the famous Prague rabbi, author of many theological writings, and legendary creator of the Golem. According to some sources, he was born in Mikulov, although this claim is not historically proven. Regardless of his birthplace, Mikulov was an important Jewish centre in his time.

Rabbi Mordechai Benet (1753–1829) – the most prominent Moravian Land Rabbi, who served in Mikulov for over 40 years. He was a recognized authority in the field of Jewish law (halakha), and his responsa (legal decisions) are still studied today. He is buried in the Mikulov Jewish cemetery.

The Auspitz family – a prominent merchant and banking family that spread from Mikulov to Vienna and other European cities. Family members belonged to the economic elite of the Habsburg Monarchy.

End of the Jewish Community – A Dark Chapter in History

The prosperity of Mikulov's Jewish community began to decline in the 19th century when Jews were free to move to larger cities. Many left for Vienna, Brno, or Prague in search of better economic opportunities.

The definitive end came with the Nazi occupation and the Holocaust. In 1938, several hundred Jews still lived in Mikulov. During the war, most of them were deported to concentration camps where they perished. The synagogue was damaged and Jewish property was confiscated.

After World War II, only a few individuals returned to Mikulov. Today, there is no organized Jewish community in Mikulov, but the monuments to its glorious past are carefully preserved and open to the public.

Practical Information for Visitors

Upper Synagogue:

• ✓ Address: Husova 13, Mikulov
• ✓ Opening hours: April–October daily 10:00–18:00 (limited in winter)
• ✓ Admission: approx. 80 CZK adults, 40 CZK students and seniors
• ✓ Wheelchair access: partial (ground floor accessible)

Jewish Cemetery:

• ✓ Entrance: from Synagogální Street
• ✓ Opening hours: April–October daily, in winter by arrangement
• ✓ Admission: free or symbolic contribution
• ✓ Note: men should have their heads covered

Guided Tours:

• ✓ Organizer: Regional Museum in Mikulov
• ✓ Reservations: recommended, tel. +420 519 309 019
• ✓ Languages: Czech, German, English

Conclusion – An Unforgettable Chapter in History

The Jewish history of Mikulov is a fascinating and tragic chapter that has left an indelible mark on the town. A walk through the synagogue, cemetery, and streets of the former ghetto offers a unique opportunity to discover the culture that co-created the face of Mikulov for centuries.

For lovers of history, architecture, and spiritual experiences, visiting the Jewish monuments in Mikulov represents an unforgettable experience. Whether you are interested in the history of Central European Jewry or simply attracted by the atmosphere of old streets and cemeteries, Mikulov will not disappoint.

Planning to visit the Jewish monuments in Mikulov? Penzion Ruze is the ideal starting point. We are located in a quiet part of town, just 15 minutes walk from the Jewish quarter. We offer comfortable rooms, free parking, and we are happy to help you plan your trips. Contact us at [email protected] or phone +420 602 340 758!