Extant Synagogues

There are still several historic synagogues worldwide that have survived through centuries. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Alte Synagoge (Old Synagogue) in Erfurt, Germany

   • Built circa 1100, it is one of the oldest intact synagogues in Europe. It's now a museum.
   • Source: Wikipedia

2. El Ghriba Synagogue, Tunisia

   • Located on the Tunisian island of Djerba, this synagogue has historical significance dating back to 586 BCE.
   • Source: SmartHistory

3. Old-New Synagogue, Prague, Czech Republic

   • Built around 1270, it is one of the oldest active synagogues in the world.
   • Source: Private Prague Guide

Reasons Why Many Synagogues Were Destroyed

The large-scale destruction of synagogues can be attributed to various historical and socio-political factors:

1. Conquest and Exile:

   • The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II ransacked Jerusalem and destroyed the First Temple.
   • Source: Brandeis Magazine

2. Wars and Occupations:

   • Many synagogues were destroyed during wars and occupations by various empires and regimes throughout history, including the Romans, Crusaders, and World War II Nazi occupation.
   • Source: Recording Cultural Genocide

3. Anti-Semitic Acts:

   • Synagogues often became targets during periods of anti-Semitic violence, e.g., Kristallnacht (Night of Broken Glass) in Nazi Germany.
   • Source: Jewish Encyclopedia

4. Political Changes:

   • Many synagogues were demolished or repurposed due to changes in political regimes that were hostile toward Jewish communities.
   • Example: In Gaza, synagogues were destroyed when Israeli settlers were removed from the area.
   • Source: ASIL

5. Natural Decay and Modernization:

   • Some synagogues were neglected and fell into disrepair due to the migration of Jewish communities.
   • Others were demolished to make way for new developments.
   • Source: Religion News

In conclusion, while several historical synagogues still stand today, many were destroyed due to conquest, wars, anti-Semitic violence, and political changes. These events had devastating impacts on Jewish communities and their places of worship.