Cultural Center Makes Jewish Life Visible - Bayreuth's New Jewish Cultural Centre Revives Historic Alte Münze Building
A new Jewish cultural centre has opened in Bayreuth's historic Alte Münze building, marking a significant moment for the city's Jewish community. Bavaria's Minister-President Markus Söder attended the ceremony, reaffirming the state's commitment to combating antisemitism in all its forms. The restored building, costing around €10 million, now stands as a modern hub for Jewish life in the heart of the city.
The Alte Münze building has deep ties to Bayreuth's Jewish history. The community first acquired it in 1760, later establishing their synagogue next to the Margravial Opera House. That synagogue, believed to be Germany's oldest still in use, survived the Nazi era—possibly due to its location near the opera house.
The newly renovated centre represents more than just a restoration. Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, highlighted its downtown location as a symbol of Jewish life's enduring presence in Bayreuth. The project, completed after years of work, transforms the historic structure into a space for cultural events and community gatherings. At the opening, Söder addressed ongoing threats, acknowledging antisemitism from far-right groups, Islamist circles, and parts of the left-wing intellectual scene. He reiterated his pledge to safeguard Jewish life in Bavaria, declaring, *'We will not tolerate antisemitism in Bavaria.'*
The cultural centre now serves as both a practical space and a visible statement of Jewish resilience in Bayreuth. Its prominent position in the city reinforces the community's long-standing roots. The €10 million restoration ensures the Alte Münze will continue to play a key role in local Jewish life for years to come.
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