Complementary Testimonies

In addition to the buildings, there are singular authentic objects with an exceptional validity on Jewish culture in Central Europe, globally unique in their sheer plenty.

Picture: The Erfurt Treasure Picture: © B. Stefan, TLDA

The Hebrew Manuscripts from the Erfurt Jewish Community, the Erfurt Jewish Oath (dating back to the end of the 12^th century, it is the oldest preserved Jewish Oath in the German tongue), a Bronze Lamp, originating around the year 1160 (the oldest known example of its kind) as well as around 75 preserved tombstones from the 13^th to 15^th century from the former Jewish cemetery.

What is more, the "Erfurt Treasure", with a weight of nearly 30kg the largest and one of the most important hoards of medieval Jewish property from the 14^th century, offers priceless understanding on status, everyday life and trading relations of wealthy Jews as citizens of central European towns and cities.

Thus, the Jewish-medieval heritage of Erfurt as a whole stands out as an exceptional showcase example of metropolitan and community culture in medieval Ashkenaz.

Back to main page