Synagogue in Lelów

The synagogue in Lelów is a house of prayer at Ogrodowa Street 3, opposite the former old Jewish cemetery. It is not a historic synagogue from past centuries but a makeshift place of prayer set up after 1990, and the town is known for Hasidic pilgrimages to the tzadik's grave.

How it came about

In the early 1990s the building of an invalids' cooperative, which stood on the site of the former synagogue, was bought by the Lelov Hasidim. They adapted one of the rooms as a temporary house of prayer.

When it is used

The building serves only during the pilgrimages to the grave of the tzadik David Biderman of Lelov. For that time Torah scrolls and the equipment needed for prayer are brought in, and after the ceremonies they are taken away again. The building also has a ritual mikveh. Outside the pilgrimages the building is usually not open to visitors. The pilgrimage site, the ohel of David Biderman, lies about 200 metres further on, and in the centre stands the church and monastery of the Franciscans.

Practical information

• Address: Ogrodowa Street 3, Lelów
• The house of prayer is open mainly during pilgrimages; at other times it can be viewed from outside
• Check dates and rules of entry with the Lelów municipal office before a visit