Explore Jewish Heritage at These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Germany

The Jewish populations in Speyer, Worms, and Mainz offer rich insights into a significant chapter of history, featuring captivating experiences that are both current and culturally rich. This area invites visitors to discover a distinct side of Germany, blending fresh perspectives with deep-rooted traditions.

For over 1,700 years, Jews have made Germany their home, contributing a unique aspect to the global Jewish diaspora and the nation's history. During the Middle Ages, amidst waves of persecution, the resilient communities of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz united to preserve Jewish culture against oppression.

Today, in the picturesque Upper Rhine Valley, Jewish life thrives vibrantly. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, the ‘ShUM’ Sites—named after the Hebrew initials of these three cities—showcase the legacy of German Jewry through a variety of museums, community centers, sacred baths, and historic cemeteries.

Experience sacred baths and fine wines in Speyer

Speyer, one of Germany's oldest cities, was originally established by the Romans as a military outpost in 10 B.C.E. By the late 13th century, it became an autonomous imperial city. Before gaining independence from the Holy Roman Empire, it emerged as a significant Jewish hub in Medieval Europe, leaving behind an enduring legacy of 11th-century architecture that can still be explored today.

To fully appreciate this history, the SchPIRA Museum offers a unique perspective, reclaiming narratives lost through centuries of oppression and tragedy. Located on the grounds of the town's original synagogue and mikveh (ritual baths), and featuring remnants of the former Jewish cemetery, the museum reconstructs life in Speyer's Jewish community a millennium ago through invaluable artifacts and everyday items.

While in Speyer, visiting the Wine Museum provides an excellent opportunity to discover the history of wine production in the Upper Rhine, including its significance in Jewish rituals. A walking wine tour is perfect for sampling the region's acclaimed pinot noirs and rieslings. Additionally, no visit to Speyer is complete without admiring the town's cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Romanesque architecture and as the burial site of eight Holy Roman Emperors and kings.

Worms, featuring its cemeteries, cultural hubs, and Reformation landmarks

Located thirty minutes north of Speyer along a railway that traces the Rhine River, Worms is renowned for hosting Martin Luther in 1521 during the pivotal Diet of Worms, a moment that reshaped Christianity. Additionally, it is home to a Jewish community that has existed since at least the year 1000, possibly even dating back to Roman times.

Despite enduring several pogroms that nearly obliterated its Jewish population, Worms now stands as a testament to resilience. A significant pilgrimage site for Jewish visitors, the Holy Sands serves as Europe’s oldest surviving Jewish cemetery, housing around 2,000 graves of notable figures, including the scholar Salomon ben Isaac and Rabbi Meir of Rothenburg.

In the Judenhof (Jewish quarter), the art nouveau Jewish hall of mourning is a must-see, along with the synagogue and mikveh. Rashi House, once a dance hall and now a museum and cultural center, hosts both permanent and rotating art exhibitions that narrate the story of Jewish life in the Rhineland, both historically and in contemporary times. Wine enthusiasts can also enjoy the Worms’ Wine Experience, featuring tastings at historic urban wineries, along with seasonal wine fairs and markets near the Vintners’ Fountain, celebrating a winemaking tradition that dates back to ancient times.

Explore more history in Mainz

As the northernmost of the ShUM cities along the Rhine, Mainz is home to the oldest Jewish community among the three, dating back at least to the mid-10th century. After enduring centuries of violence and hardship, only a few remnants of that community remain today, including a small yet significant burial ground from around 1012.

The state capital has emerged as a vibrant symbol of modern Jewish culture in Germany, highlighted by the striking “new” synagogue designed by architect Manuel Herz in 2010, which incorporates remnants of the “old” synagogue that was destroyed in 1938. Inspired by the teachings of Gershom ben Jehuda, a prominent 11th-century Talmudic scholar, the building’s angular and symbolic design attracts fans of contemporary architecture. Featuring a mikveh, kosher kitchen, and community center, the synagogue serves as a vital hub for the local Jewish community, hosting historical exhibitions, concerts, and services for those eager to learn more.

While in Mainz, don't miss the old city center, characterized by its medieval cathedral, timber-framed shops, and numerous historic wine cellars and taverns, where you can savor a traditional weck, worscht un woi (bread roll and sausage paired with a glass of local wine) or enjoy a refreshing schoppe (wine mixed with sparkling water).

For those exploring the ShUM cities, the modern and eclectic Hilton Mainz makes for an ideal and cozy base, just a block from Mainz’s historic center and right on the banks of the Rhine River. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the riverside terrace of Weinstube, the hotel’s restaurant that serves regional dishes alongside samples of renowned local wine. With the train station just 10 minutes away, Speyer, Worms, and the exceptional wineries of the Upper Rhine are easily accessible.

Following the Rhine

For those eager to explore the region’s significant contributions to Judeo-Christian history, the Faith Route offers a unique perspective on German history. This itinerary, featuring seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spans 10 culturally rich days, starting from Jewish Mainz and extending eastward to Martin Luther's birthplace, along with various historical sites that influenced the remarkable life of the Christian reformer.