Nożyk Synagogue

Living synagogue in center of Warsaw

The only pre-war synagogue in Warsaw still standing. 10 zloty to enter.

I visited this place for a piano concert.nThe first impression is oppression: super strict security protocol. Massive barriers on the way to synagogue. Beton blocks, fence and security instructions on the way. Then you can expect a security scan same as at the airport, and security search of your bags, backpacks.nBut when you are inside, then you really understand all those protocols. Synagogue is moving you to a time trip to an ancient world, that once has been almost removed and vanished from Warsaw, because there was no security protocols, or there have been not enough.nMen must cover their heads.nGreat place for concerts, as acoustic is fantastic there.

The fact that there is a synagogue in Warsaw at all is nothing short of amazing, and for that reason alone you should have a look. It's not the biggest, or the most elaborate or beautiful synagogue you will ever see, but given the history of Jews in Poland, it's like a triumph of the human spirit to come here. Go of course to the Polin museum first, and do plan to spend a whole day there. If you aren't moved by the experience, you probably don't get emotional about much, but this will touch most people.

Interesting especially the information outside