The choice to add Erfurt to this esteemed list was made at a UN Cultural Organization conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. EU Helpers notes that Germany now has 52 World Heritage Sites as a result of this recent accession.
The Old Synagogue, the Mikveh, and the Stone House are three significant structures that are reportedly part of one property, which is situated in the center of Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, in the medieval district.
These buildings serve as moving memories of the Jewish community's active existence in the area and of its peaceful coexistence with a Christian majority in Central Europe during the Middle Ages. From the end of the 11th century to the middle of the 14th century, this crucial historical period took place.
By designating the ShUM sites in Mainz, Worms, and Speyer as World legacy sites two years ago, UNESCO acknowledged the existence of Jewish cultural legacy in Germany. Due to their historical significance as the birthplace of European Judaism, these nations have acquired their status.
The Old Synagogue in Erfurt holds a unique place in this heritage. One of the oldest synagogues in Central Europe that has been preserved all the way up to its roof is thought to be this one. The old synagogue is now a museum where people may learn about and interact with artifacts from Jewish life in Erfurt throughout the Middle Ages. It serves as an important testament to the region's vibrant Jewish cultural history.
Erfurt has connections to more modern Jewish history in addition to its medieval Jewish legacy. There are two contemporary synagogues in the city, one of which is frequently visited by Jews. Erfurt also has a Jewish cemetery that was established in 1871 and is still in operation today.
The location of the Old Cemetery, which was destroyed, is another significant historical landmark that commemorates the Jewish heritage of the city. The Old Synagogue Museum features a number of tombstones from ancient Jewish cemeteries, so visitors may see how history is being preserved.