Šaštín, Synagogue

The synagogue in Šaštín was built in 1852 in late classical style, replacing an older prayer house. Designed by an unknown architect, the massive brick building with a rectangular layout became a distinctive landmark of the town.
The synagogue served the local Jewish community until the beginning of World War II. After most of the Jewish population was deported or emigrated, the building was abandoned and later used as a granary and storage facility, which led to its gradual decay.

In 2019, when demolition was being considered, Pavol Demeš and a newly formed civic association, Synagogue Šaštín, initiated efforts to save and restore the building. In the same year, the synagogue was declared a National Cultural Monument. Since then, thanks to volunteer work and support by donors, the structure has been protected with a new roof and is undergoing gradual restoration.
The project’s goal is to transform the former synagogue into a memorial site and multifunctional cultural venue, highlighting the history and legacy of the Jewish community that had settled in Šaštín as early as the 16th century. Its presence is also commemorated by a large Jewish cemetery on the outskirts of the town of Šaštín-Stráže.