Maribor Synagogue, also known as Sinagoga Maribor, is one of the oldest preserved synagogues in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. It’s located in the former Jewish quarter of Maribor, in the city’s historic center.
The synagogue was once a center of Jewish religious and community life in Maribor. However, during the 15th and 16th centuries, as a consequence of anti-Semitic measures and expulsions, the Jewish community in Maribor dwindled. By the late 16th century, the synagogue was no longer used for Jewish worship.
Throughout its history, the building has served various purposes. After the expulsion of Jews from Maribor, it was transformed into a Catholic Church. Later on, it was used as a warehouse, a military barracks, and a dance school. Despite these changes, the basic structure of the medieval synagogue was preserved.
In the 1990s, extensive restoration work was carried out, and the Maribor Synagogue was opened to the public as a cultural center. It now hosts exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and workshops. One of its main roles is to promote the understanding of Jewish culture, history, and the Holocaust, not only in Maribor but also in the broader region.
The Maribor Synagogue is a significant part of Maribor’s history as it bears testimony to the city’s multicultural past and the important role the Jewish community once played in Maribor. Its survival and current use as a cultural center underscores the city’s commitment to preserving its rich historical heritage and promoting cultural diversity.