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Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt
The Old Synagogue of Erfurt, © Stadtverwaltung Erfurt/Dirk Urban
The Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt was inscribed on the World Heritage List on 17th September 2023. This decision was taken during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, which is currently taking place in Riad, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The number of German UNESCO World Heritage Sites has now increased to 52.
The property comprises the Old Synagogue, the Mikveh, a ritual bath, and the Stone House, a historical residential building. The Old Synagogue is one of the oldest preserved synagogues in Europe. Its history goes back to the late 11th century. The Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt illustrates the infrastructure of a Jewish community in Central Europe during the Middle Ages and the coexistence between Jewish and Christian neighbours, but it also bears witness to pogroms and deportation.
“The inscription of the Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt to the World Heritage List makes an important contribution to the visibility of the common roots of Jews and Christians in Germany and Europe and to its preservation for the future. This new World Heritage site underlines the German commitment to fulfil UNESCO’s objectives. It promotes the understanding for cultural diversity and mutual respect for complex historical heritage”, declared Kerstin Pürschel, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Germany to UNESCO.