The history of the Jews in Innsbruck dates back to the 13th century, where the Jewish community of Innsbruck was relatively small with many expulsions occurring over the centuries. During the 17th century, the existence of the Innsbruck Jews was insecure, facing many expulsions. The 19th century saw Jews settled in Innsbruck with a synagogue, religious life and Jewish-Christian coexistence. The highest number of Jews in Innsbruck was before World War I, with approximately 500 people. During the Nazi era, the Jews of Innsbruck faced persecution and destruction. At the beginning of the Holocaust, in 1938, there were approximately 250 Jews remaining, as many had fled the country. Many Jews from Innsbruck were murdered during the Holocaust, where Innsbruck Jews were particularly targeted during Kristallnacht. After WWII, the Jewish community of Innsbruck grew slowly, with predominantly older members returning. The old synagogue which was destroyed during the pogrom was rebuilt in the same location and many memorials were placed to honour victims of the Holocaust. 13–19th centuries After a Jew was mentioned as mint master to the duke of Tyrol in the 13th century, Jewish traders and moneylenders moved to Innsbruck from Italy and Carinthia. Many Jews left Innsbruck during the 14th century, but once Florentine bankers became bankrupt, Jews returned to replace these bankers. The Jewish community suffered during the Black Death persecution, but the community remained. During the 16th century, Jews became established in Innsbruck as bankers and agents of foreign trading houses. Jews in Innsbruck were not affected by the imperial elicit expelling of Jews from Tyrol in 1520. Duke Ferdinand II led Tyrol in 1618–1623. During his reign, many Jews settled in Innsbruck, earning positions in government and esteemed court positions. Following Duke Ferdinand II's death, no Jews were allowed in Innsbruck and religious services were held in private residences. In 1674, Burghers expelled the Jews from Innsbruck and only two families remained. Two years later, in 1676, Jews expelled from Hohenems were allowed to settle in Innsbruck. The beginning of the 18th century saw many Jewish people returning to Innsbruck. In 1714, Jews were again expelled by the government as they endangered "the Christian character of the city". Only two brothers were allowed to remain due to generous donations they had made to the city hospital. Maria Theresa declared Innsbruck a "Jew-free city" in 1748 and only eight tolerated Jews remained in Tyrol. In 1785,