The Altneuschul (the Old-New Synagogue) of Prague 700th Anniversary Medal
1990
caption:
Reverse: The reverse depicts the old Jewish cemetery of Prague. The grave stones in the cemetery date from 1439 to 1787. Imposed above the grave stones is a Seal of Solomon, with a hat of high rabbinical office in the center. This hat probably symbolizes the presence in the cemetery of its most famous resident, Great Rabbi Judah Loew Ben Bezalel (a. 1525-1609), known as the Maharal of Prague. Rabbi Loew’s actual accomplishments are considerable and he has left a distinguished body of writings, which combine philosophy and mysticism to create original interpretations of Judaism. However, Rabbi Loew is best remembered in the field of legend, as the creator of the famous Golem. The reverse inscription, in Czech, translates “Jewish Religious Community in Prague.”
Identifer: CJF-RFC2013327
Medium
Bronze
Description
The Altneuschul (the Old-New Synagogue) of Prague is the oldest standing synagogue in Europe. The structure is as impressive for its gloomy and haunting interior, created by its narrow windows, as for its unique and bold exterior. The originality of the design was no doubt influenced by the fact that the building was intended to stand in the heart of the Jewish quarter, where the architects felts they didn’t need to fear criticism from the outside forces. I think that it can be safely said that the architects have succeeded in creating a Gothic structure of great elegance and spirituality, free of the Christian symbolism and forms which usually dominate this style.
In 1990, the government of Czechoslovakia, then near the end of its existence as a communist government and as that of a unified country, issued a commemorative medal marking the 700th anniversary of this great structure.
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