The Rabbi’s Residence in Úštěk

In close proximity to the synagogue on the rocky ledge, a Rabbi’s residence with a slightly trapezoid ground plan was built in the 19th century, though its original foundations date all the way back to the Middle Ages. It was rebuilt several times subsequently and recently underwent complicated and costly renovations.

The Jewish community in Úštěk had a unique synagogue for which it was necessary to build a rabbi’s residence. It went up in the 19^th century, several decades after the synagogue. It has three above-ground and one underground floors, with the latter probably housing a mikveh. Like the synagogue, after WWII the rabbi’s house was abandoned, neglected and badly damaged. Fortunately, both buildings were included in the unique Revitalisation of Jewish Landmarks project. The rabbi’s residence was sensitively renovated and today houses an exhibition mapping the history of Jewish education. It is also used for lectures, exhibitions and other arts events.