The fate of the Sarafska, or Usurer's, House has been better. Built at the same time as the synagogue and close to it – the inhabitants of the mansion had direct access to the house of prayer – it was the smallest of the residences of a wealthy Jewish family, the Aries. The house is now a museum, and offers a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy people of Samokov. The house was designed in line with the finest traditions of the Revival Period architecture, and furnished with expensive tables, stools, sofas and wardrobes imported from Europe. Jewish symbolism is everywhere and the museum also has a huge family tree of the Aries. It was supposed to be open, but was locked when we arrived.