Great Synagogue by Karel Mašek - Plzen, Czech Republic
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ToRo61
N 49° 44.796 E 013° 22.419
33U E 382835 N 5511726
Pilsen’s Great Synagogue is the third largest structure of its type in Europe and the fifth largest in the world. In addition, it is the largest synagogue in the Czech Republic, which allegedly could hold as many as 2,500 people.
Waymark Code: WM19633
Location: Plzeňský kraj, Czechia
Date Posted: 12/03/2023
Views: 2
The fate of this imposing structure was troubled right from the beginning. Originally, it was meant to be built in the northern neo-Gothic style as designed by the Viennese architect Fleischer. However, his design was not used in the end. There are two reasons explaining why this happened. The story goes that the governing bodies of the city at that time didn’t like the idea that this new sanctuary to Judaism would cast a shadow on Pilsen’s cathedral. The plans for the towers were shortened by 20 metres and the design changed in such a way to ensure no one would ever mistake the Synagogue for a Christian church. The second explanation is much more prosaic; there simply wasn’t enough money to complete the Viennese architect’s design.
Pilsen’s Great Synagogue acts as a witness to the rich history of the city’s Jewish community, which was decimated by the Nazis during World War Two. Apart from its religious purposes, the Great Synagogue also serves as both a concert and exposition hall thanks to its great acoustics and unique atmosphere. The reconstruction of the Synagogue’s interior as well as that of the neighbouring rabbi’s home has been recently completed. A newly restored mikveh (a ritual bath used in Judaism) is featured in the basement area. A special exposition is dedicated to this new addition. The guided tours are available for groups only.
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Karel Mašek was born on 4 November 1883 in Hradište near Blovice. Painter in Pilsen, brother of painter Jaroslav Mašek. In 1904 he attended an evening course in drawing at the art and industrial school in Prague under Prof. Jakesch and in 1905 - 1906 a preparatory course under Prof. Roubalík at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague. Private study of painting in 1906 - 1909 in Prague. He painted mainly caricatures and landscapes.
Website of painting. Exact URL of painting is required: [Web Link]
Artist: Karel Mašek
Date of Your Photograph: 05/06/2023
Medium of Painting: oil on canvas
Date of Painting: Not listed
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