Model: The Great Synagogue (Schulhof)

Must Know

Construction of the synagogue began in 1573. The “Schulhof,” or synagogue courtyard, was developed over the following centuries. The complex came to include several smaller synagogues, a study hall, ritual baths and the famous Stershon rabbinical library.

Most of the courtyard buildings were destroyed during the Second World War. What survived the Germans was destroyed by the Soviets.
One of the synagogues in the courtyard was the prayer house attended by the Vilna Gaon who led the rabbinic opposition (the Mitnagdim) to the rise of the Hassidic movement.