Tykocin, Synagogue

The Tykocin Synagogue is an historic synagogue building in Tykocin, Poland. The synagogue, in mannerist-early Baroque style, was built in 1642.

The synagogue was thoroughly restored in the late 1970s. The historic wall paintings, most of which are decorative texts of Hebrew prayers, were restored. The elaborate, decorative ceiling was not reconstructed although some idea of the style can be gleaned from the design of the Torah Ark.

A former Beit Medrash (study and prayer hall) located across the street has been restored and is in use as a city museum.

Although no Jews now live in Tykocin and the town has no other tourist attractions, 40,000 tourists a year come to see the old synagogue, which towers over the remote village "in lonely and unexpected splendor."  The tourism has generated economic activity, including a cafe serving "Jewish-style" food and a bed-and-breakfast.