Wrocław's White Stork Synagogue only surviving building of its type in the city. Today, this building serves as a Jewish community centre, hosting events and historical exhibits.
Badly damaged, but not set ablaze (thanks only to its proximity to residential buildings), the synagogue was literally left to rot after the war, before the Jewish community was finally able to recover it from the Polish government in 1996 and initiate restoration. Restored and reopened in May 2010, the synagogue now serves as a worship space, cultural centre, museum, branch of the Jewish Information Centre and ritual bath house. Both balconies serve as exhibition spaces - one houses the permanent exhibit 'History of Jews in Wrocław and Lower Silesia,' while the second is for temporary exhibits - and the historic mikvah in the basement (which can be entered free of charge) hosts the multimedia exhibit 'Jewish Cycle of Life.'
Comments
David Bowes
Wayne NJ
My Father, Eric Bowes (born Brauer) had much to do with the transfer of the White Stork from the local Catholic authorities who insisted it was their communal property. Once transferred in middle 90's, my Dad strived to save this building (his bar mitzvah shul) from collapse. New foundation, plumbing, electrical plus the lighted housing on roof containing Jewish star for all to see. Photos of 2010 interior renovation is almost unbelievable compared to the decayed hulk my Dad, 16 yr old son and I made to participate in the re-dedication of the building BACK to Jewish ownership 60 years to the day of Kristalnacht!. It is a miracle.
hugo cavendish
UK
Am Yisroel Chai!
Barry Willig
Philadelphia
Based on the most recent statistics, it appears that the Jewish community of Wroclaw is still holding its own at 1,000.
barry Willig
Do the Silesian Jews of Wroclaw speak both Polish and German? Is the White Stork Synagogue Reform or Orthodox? Is the jewish community of 1000 growing or declining?