Jewish Kolín
with Yvonne Penkavova


Jerusalem on Elbe
Step beyond the usual tourist routes and immerse yourself in the powerful, lesser-known story of Jewish life in the Czech countryside.
The Jewish community in Kolín dates back to the 14th century and was once the second largest Jewish community in the Czech lands. Thanks to its rich history and cultural significance, Kolín earned the nickname "Jerusalem on the Elbe."

During this tour, you’ll explore the authentic traces of traditional Jewish life in Central Bohemia — a unique opportunity to walk through a beautifully reconstructed 16th-century synagogue, the remains of the medieval Jewish Quarter, and one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in the country.
You would be picked up in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 AM, and the time of arrival back to Prague is at around 2:00 PM.

The timing of a private tour is fully flexible and can be adjusted according to your travel plans.

Only a 50-minute drive from Prague, this hidden gem offers a deeply moving and educational experience, perfect for those seeking a more meaningful connection to Jewish heritage off the beaten path.


Medieval Jewish cemetery
Dating back to the 14th century, this remarkably well-preserved cemetery is one of the oldest in the country and the final resting place of many prominent figures in Czech Jewish history. Unlike the crowded cemetery in Prague, here you’ll likely find yourself alone among the centuries-old tombstones — an intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience that offers quiet reflection and a powerful connection to the past.
Story of Rabbi Feder
A central figure in Kolín’s Jewish history is Rabbi Richard Feder, who showed remarkable resilience in re-establishing the local Jewish community after the Holocaust. Despite losing his wife, children, and grandchildren, he chose not to emigrate during the Communist era, remaining with the shattered community to offer support and leadership. In 1952, he created one of the first Holocaust memorials in the country, which you can visit during the tour. Rabbi Feder became a pillar of hope and continuity, helping Kolín become one of the few Czech congregations to be revived after the war.
Preserved synagogue
The Kolín Synagogue is one of the oldest and most beautifully preserved Jewish monuments in Bohemia. Built in the 16th century, it served as the spiritual center for one of the largest Jewish communities in the region. Remarkably, the building survived the Second World War and remains intact today, offering a rare glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of Bohemian Jewry.
Yvonne Penkavova

Yvonne is a historian and student at Charles University in Prague, specializing in Jewish history and heritage. Her first visit to Kolín, as part of a social media project, quickly became personal — sparking a deep commitment to the research and popularization of Kolín’s Jewish history. In addition to guiding, Yvonne regularly collaborates with cultural and educational institutions, offering both online and in-person presentations. Through her Instagram platform, she engages younger audiences, raising awareness of the rich and often overlooked chapters of Jewish history in the Czech Republic.

Jewish Prague Tours

by Bat-El Tours

Phone: 00 420 608 931 093
Email: office@jewish-prague-tours.com

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