Jewish Info Point (in Singer Jewish bookstore and cafe)

The Jewish Silk Road Pressbook

The Jewish Tapestry of Europe: A Journey Through Time and Tradition

Europe, with its cobblestone streets, towering cathedrals, and history-soaked cities, holds within its heart a story not often told with the vibrancy it deserves—the Jewish story. It's a tale woven with the threads of resilience, tradition, and an enduring spirit that has significantly shaped the continent's cultural fabric. Let's embark on an enlightening journey to explore the Jewish narrative across Europe, where each destination invites us to immerse ourselves in experiences that are both profound and inspiring. [caption id="attachment_53956" align="alignnone" width="693"] Seville, Spain - Photo on Tours By Locals[/caption] The Dawn of Diaspora: Spain and Portugal Our journey begins under the Iberian sun, in Spain and Portugal, where the Sephardic Jews left an unforgettable mark. In cities like Toledo, Córdoba, and Lisbon, the echoes of a once-thriving Jewish life still resonate through the narrow lanes and historic synagogues, such as the Santa María la Blanca in Toledo. These places are not just sites; they are portals to the past, inviting us to explore the Golden Age of Jewish culture in Spain, where scholars, poets, and philosophers flourished. The tragic tale of the Expulsion in 1492 reminds us that the Jewish spirit is resilient, as the Sephardic diaspora spread their rich traditions across the world. [caption id="attachment_53955" align="alignnone" width="640"] Kazimierz, Poland - Photo by Tupungato on GetYourGuide[/caption] The Heartbeat of Ashkenaz: Poland and Germany Moving northward, Poland and Germany beckon with stories of the Ashkenazi Jews, whose influence is stitched into the very fabric of European history. Krakow's Kazimierz district, once a vibrant Jewish quarter, and Warsaw, with its poignant memorials and reborn Jewish community, showcase the soul-stirring history of Polish Jews. Berlin's New Synagogue, with its golden dome shining anew, symbolizes the resilience and revival of Jewish life in Germany. These lands tell tales of great thinkers like Moses Mendelssohn, heartbreaking losses, and miraculous rebirths, encapsulating the complexity of the Jewish experience in Europe. [caption id="attachment_53959" align="alignnone" width="640"] Great Synagogue of Rome -Tempio Maggiore, Italy - Photo by Xbrchx on Dreamstime[/caption] The Melting Pot of Cultures: Italy Ah, Italy! A country where the Jewish story intertwines with ancient Roman history, creating a unique cultural flavor. From the historic Jewish Ghetto in Venice, the first of its kind, to the vibrant Jewish community in Rome, which is among the oldest in Europe, Italy offers a fascinating glimpse into how Jewish culture has melded with local traditions. The stunning synagogues, mouthwatering kosher Italian cuisine, and lively festivals, such as the Jewish Book Festival in Rome, showcase a community that, despite challenges, thrives with joy and vitality. [caption id="attachment_53960" align="alignnone" width="600"] Montmartre, France - Photo by Alexander Spatari on GettyImages[/caption] The Spirit of Survival: France In France, the Jewish narrative encapsulates a blend of beauty and bravery. Paris, with its iconic Marais district, is home to thriving Jewish bookstores, bakeries, and synagogues, each telling a story of survival and resilience. The haunting history of the Holocaust and the vibrant rebirth of Jewish life in France serve as reminders of the community's unbreakable spirit. From the medieval Jewish heritage in Provence to the contemporary Jewish art scene in Paris, France offers a rich exploration of Jewish life, past and present. [caption id="attachment_53958" align="alignnone" width="600"] Honey & Co, United Kingdom - Photo on honeyandco.com[/caption] Embracing the Future: The United Kingdom Our journey concludes in the United Kingdom, where London's dynamic Jewish community is looking forward with optimism. The British Jewish story, from the medieval era to the vivid cultural contributions of today, reflects a community that has always adapted and thrived. The UK's Jewish Film Festival, Jewish museums, and kosher culinary scene are testaments to a community that, while mindful of its past, is eagerly embracing the future. The Jewish story of Europe is a mosaic of tragedy and triumph, loss and renewal. It's a narrative that invites us to explore, understand, and celebrate the indomitable spirit of the Jewish people. As we wander through the streets of Europe, let's allow ourselves to be inspired by the resilience, enriched by the culture, and moved by the history of the Jewish communities that call this continent home. Join us on this journey of discovery, and immerse yourself in the vivacious tapestry of Jewish life in Europe.

Theatron Jerusalem Hotel & Spa

Experience Authentic Jerusalem at Theatron Hotel & Spa In a city that has witnessed millennia of history, Theatron Jerusalem Hotel & Spa offers travelers a luxurious sanctuary that blends the rich past of Jerusalem with the comfort of modern amenities. This exquisite establishment is not just a place to stay; it’s an immersive experience that echoes the unique tapestry of cultural narratives found only in this part of the world. The hotel's prime location gives guests immediate access to the storied alleyways of ancient neighborhoods, while providing a sweeping view of the breathtaking Jerusalem cityscape. Every stone and surface of Theatron Jerusalem tells a story, and as a guest, you become a part of this continuing narrative. What truly sets Theatron Jerusalem apart is its thoughtful integration of Jerusalem's heritage into every aspect of its architecture and design. From arches that remind one of bygone eras to contemporary furnishings that represent the city's ongoing evolution, the hotel marries the old with the new in effortless elegance. Guests can unwind in their luxurious rooms that are sanctuaries of peace and comfort, pamper themselves in the full-service spa that pays homage to ancient bathing rituals, or treat their taste buds with the flavors of local and international cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant. Enrich your stay further by indulging in the scheduled cultural events that celebrate the diverse heritage of Jerusalem—offering insights, entertainment, and inspiration. The Theatron Jerusalem Hotel & Spa is not just a gateway to explore Jewish history and culture; it’s your home-away-from-home in the eternal city of Jerusalem.

Sergei Palace

Discover the Charm of Sergei Palace, Jerusalem Originally built in the late 19th century, the architectural marvel that is Sergei Palace offers travelers an extraordinary glimpse into the storied past of one of the world's most ancient cities. Its prime location not only situates guests a stone's throw away from Jerusalem's revered landmarks but also within the vibrant thrum of modern city life. The majesty of the Old City walls, the bustling markets, and hallowed sites are all within your reach, offering an immersive experience into the cherished history of Jewish heritage. The grandeur of Sergei Palace is more than just its prime location; it's a testament to the fusion of historical architecture and contemporary conveniences. Each brick of this magnificent structure tells a tale, with design elements that articulate a story steeped in time while affording guests the luxury of state-of-the-art amenities. The intricate stonework and classic arches invite you into a sanctuary of tranquility, where each room is a harmonious blend of comfort and style. From the exquisite dining experiences that offer a taste of local and international cuisines to the serene courtyards ideal for introspection and relaxation, your stay is guaranteed to be as enriching as it is restful. At Sergei Palace, every visitor is not just a guest but a part of a living legacy, ensuring a travel experience replete with cultural insights and unforgettable memories.

Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center

Explore the Historic Elegance of the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center In the epicenter of one of the world's oldest and most vibrant cities, the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center offers a unique haven that seamlessly blends historical elegance with modern amenities. This iconic institution, not merely a hotel but a landmark, stands at a crossroads of cultures and epochs, promising guests an immersive cultural experience steeped in the rich tapestry of Jerusalem's history. From the moment you step through its stately doors, you're transported into a world where ancient stone walls reverberate with stories of the past, while providing all the comforts and conveniences a modern traveler desires. The Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center is not just a stay—it's a journey through time. It boasts an unrivaled location, within easy walking distance to the sacred sites of the Old City, including the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding neighborhoods - each a vivid tableau of daily life, full of bustling markets and timeless traditions. Architecturally stunning, the center marries Gothic revival design with Jerusalem stone, creating an environment that is as visually inspiring as it is comfortable. With world-class amenities tailored to meet the needs of every guest, including sumptuous dining options, serene courtyards, and panoramic rooftop vistas, your stay at Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center transcends mere accommodation—it becomes a passage to discovery amid the very heartbeat of Jerusalem.

The YMCA Three Arches Hotel

Welcome to The YMCA Three Arches Hotel, Jerusalem Immerse yourself in the heart of history at The YMCA Three Arches Hotel, where exceptional hospitality meets an emblematic beacon of peace and unity in the vibrant city of Jerusalem. Strategically located at the crossroads of the historic districts, this landmark hotel is not only a central hub for cultural exploration but also a breathtaking piece of architectural prowess. With its proximity to the Old City, guests have the privilege of experiencing Jerusalem's mosaic of traditions within walking distance. The stone arches and beautiful gardens contribute to an atmosphere of tranquility amidst the city's bustling energy, perfectly blending serene retreat with urban excitement. Designed by the renowned architect Arthur Loomis Harmon, the mind behind New York City's Empire State Building, The YMCA Three Arches Hotel exemplifies an enchanting mix of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, crowned with a distinctive tower offering panoramic views of the cityscape. Within its walls, you'll find an array of modern amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, swimming pools, and diverse dining options, all designed to provide a comfortable and culturally rich stay. Whether you're seeking a peaceful haven after a day of discovery or eager to engage with the local community, The YMCA Three Arches Hotel is the embodiment of cultural experience and a premier choice for travelers seeking authenticity and inspiration.

Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

Discover the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem In the heart of a city that has been a beacon of heritage and culture for ages, the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem stands not only as an embodiment of luxury but also as a testament to history. Located at the intersection of ancient tradition and contemporary refinement, this iconic hotel invites guests to experience Jerusalem in its full historical significance. The esteemed locale means that the walls of the Old City, brimming with spiritual resonance and timeless landmarks, are merely a stroll away. Walking through Jerusalem's winding alleyways, one is transported across epochs, as the hotel serves as a gateway to a past that is vibrantly alive within the present. The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem seamlessly blends stunning architecture and design to create an ambiance that respects its storied past while leading the wave of modern luxury accommodations. Guests are enveloped in an atmosphere that echoes with palatial elegance with its grand arches, intricate stonework, and meticulous attention to detail. Comfort and opulence are imbued in every amenity provided, from sumptuously appointed rooms and attentive concierge service to the exquisite gourmet cuisine that awaits to tantalize your palate. Venturing beyond the calming oasis of the hotel, one immerses in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, where every step tells a story, and every visit deepens one’s appreciation for this truly unique city. The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem is more than a hotel—it is a chapter in a grand narrative, inviting you to become part of Jerusalem's living history.

Virtual tour of The Last Supper

Virtual Tour of The Last Supper, the Cenacle Step into the hallowed spaces of the Cenacle, the revered site of the Last Supper, with an immersive Virtual Tour. Visitors from across the globe can now experience the rich history and spiritual gravity of this sacred chamber from the comfort of their homes. Journey back to the Gothic era, explore the architectural marvels and uncover the events that took place within these storied walls. The Cenacle, known to the world as the Upper Room, is an emblem of great historical and religious significance. Located above King David's Tomb, this legendary venue of the Last Supper awaits to reveal its secrets. Admire the vaulted ceilings and the intricate designs characteristic of a time when the Crusaders walked these lands. Imagine the clandestine Passover meal, where Jesus shared final moments with his disciples and unveiled the impending betrayal by one among them. This tour not only breathes life into biblical stories, but also intricately stitches together the tapestry of various epochs that have left their mark upon this ancient site.

In the footsteps of Jesus: From Palm Sunday to Good Friday

In the Footsteps of Jesus: A Virtual Pilgrimage Immerse yourself in a spiritual and cultural odyssey with "In the Footsteps of Jesus: From Palm Sunday to Good Friday," an evocative virtual tour that encapsulates the solemnity of a historic walk through Jerusalem. Led by Uri Goldflam, a guide renowned for his knowledge and passion for scripture and the Holy Land, this tour unfolds a narrative of faith across the sacred geography that witnessed the final days of Jesus Christ. The visual pilgrimage springs to life from the panoramic vistas of Mt. of Olives, offering participants a sweeping view of the cityscape and the sacred Temple Mount. Descending the "Palm Sunday Road" and moving towards the resonant silence of the Garden of Gethsemane, the tour offers more than just sights—it's a tapestry woven with deep contextual understandings that provide profound insights into scripture, history, and tradition. Traverse the ancient Kidron Valley to enter the Old City via St. Stephens (Lion's) Gate, then glimpse the healing waters of the Pools of Bethesda before venturing along the bustling Via Dolorosa. This experience culminates at the monumental sites of the Damascus Gate, the Hill of Golgotha, and the Garden Tomb—each step an echo of ancient paths.

Virtual tour of the road of suffering, Via Dolorosa

Explore the Via Dolorosa Virtual Tour – A Journey through Sacred History Step into a virtual realm where devout narratives and historical grandeur converge on the ancient cobblestone paths of Jerusalem. The Via Dolorosa, or the Way of Sorrows, encapsulates not just a route but a spiritual expedition that has beckoned millions of hearts around the globe. From the grounds where Jesus was condemned to the somber trek towards Golgotha, each step resonates with profound significance. The comprehensive virtual tour invites you to traverse this sacred pathway, experiencing the 14 Stations of the Cross from the convenience and comfort of your own home. This thematic experience, meticulously crafted for virtual travelers and cultural enthusiasts, harmonizes reverence, education, and exploration. Discover the hallowed intersections of faith and history as you move through the expanse of Jerusalem's storied passages. Commence at the very site where Jesus faced trial and observe the remnants of the past within the modern-day Umariya school. Visualize the vivid tableau of the Ecce Homo Arch where Pontius Pilate's fateful words marked a pivotal moment in Christian narratives. Journey onwards to the imposing Franciscan church and the humbling Armenian Chapel, standing as guardians of history, their stones echoing tales of endurance and devotion. The venerable Our Lady of Sorrows Armenian Catholic Church further captures the essence of maternal love and solemn encounter. This virtual tour, rich with immersive visuals and historical insights, isn’t just an act of remembrance but an invitation to embody the spirit of the Via Crucis.

Virtual Tour of the Holy Land

Explore the Holy Land: An Easter and Passover Virtual Journey Step into a world where ancient traditions meet modern-day celebration with the exclusive virtual tour, "Explore the Holy Land: An Easter and Passover Virtual Journey." This immersive experience invites virtual travelers and cultural enthusiasts to traverse the sacred landscapes of Galilee and Jerusalem from the comfort of their homes. With the spring season blossoming, there's no better time to connect with the spiritual significance of these historic sites and observe the origins and practices of Easter and Passover. Witness the serene beauty of the Mount of Beatitudes, where verdant hills whisper tales of sermons past. Visit the venerable Mount Zion and its surrounding landmarks steeped in millennia of lore, and conclude your expedition at the tranquil Garden Tomb. As knowledgeable guides walk you through these hallowed grounds, they'll unravel the fascinating evolution of Passover festivities and how it intertwines with Easter celebrations. Whether you're seeking to deepen your understanding or simply bask in the rich tapestry of history and tradition, this virtual tour is a gateway to enlightenment and reflection. While attendance is free of charge, the appreciation of your tips would be highly welcome. Embark on a remarkable passage through time and faith—an enriching experience awaits.

The Easter Story in Jerusalem Live Virtual Tour

Experience the Easter Story: A Live Virtual Journey in Jerusalem Step into history and spirituality with our exclusive get-inspired listing—Experience the Easter Story in Jerusalem. This unique Live Virtual Tour invites you on an immersive odyssey to follow in the footsteps of Jesus during his last week on Earth. Journey past the ancient olive trees of the Mount of Olives, a silent witness to Christ's prayers and ascension, and meander through the winding streets of Jerusalem to reach the evocative Church of the Holy Sepulcher, where tradition holds Jesus was crucified and resurrected. Crafted for virtual travelers and cultural enthusiasts alike, this virtual escapade is led by an experienced professional guide whose knowledge illuminates every site along the way. Visualize the legendary Garden Tomb, ponder upon the mysterious Status Quo agreement, and engage with the layered narratives that have made Jerusalem a crossroads of faith and history. From the comfort of your home, connect with the timeless tales written into the cobblestone streets and sacred edifices of this holy city. Whether you are looking to deepen your religious insights or simply explore historical wonders, this Live Virtual Tour beckons you to witness the Easter story unravel in the very heart of Jerusalem.

Stadttempel Synagogue

The Stadttempel (English: City Prayer House), also called the Seitenstettengasse Temple, is the main synagogue of Vienna, Austria. The synagogue was constructed from 1824 to 1826. The luxurious Stadttempel was fitted into a block of houses and hidden from plain view of the street, because of an edict issued by Emperor Joseph II that only Roman Catholic places of worship were allowed to be built with facades fronting directly on to public streets. This edict saved the synagogue from total destruction during the Kristallnacht in November 1938, since the synagogue could not be destroyed without setting on fire the buildings to which it was attached. The Stadttempel was the only synagogue in the city to survive World War II, as Nazi paramilitary troops with the help of local authorities destroyed all of the other 93 synagogues and Jewish prayer-houses in Vienna, starting with the Kristallnacht. In August 1950, the coffins of Theodor Herzl and his parents were displayed at the synagogue, prior to their transfer for reburial in Israel. In the 1981 Vienna synagogue attack, two people from a bar mitzvah ceremony at the synagogue were murdered and thirty injured when Palestinian Arab terrorists attacked the synagogue with machine guns and hand grenades. Today the synagogue is the main house of prayer for the Viennese Jewish Community of about 7,000 members. The synagogue has been declared a historic monument. The synagogue was designed in elegant Biedermeier style by the Viennese architect Joseph Kornhäusel, architect to Johann I Joseph, Prince of Liechtenstein, for whom he had built palaces, theaters and other buildings. Construction was supervised by the official municipal architect, Jacob Heinz. The synagogue itself is in the form of an oval. A ring of twelve Ionic columns support a two-tiered women's gallery. Originally, the galleries ended one column away from the Torah Ark, they were later extended to the columns beside the ark to provide more seating. the building is domed and lit by a lantern in the center of the dome, in classic Biedermeyer style. A commemorative glass made at the time of the synagogue's dedication and etched with a detailed image of the synagogue's interior is now in the collection of the Jewish Museum (New York). The synagogue underwent renovation in 1895 and again in 1904 by the Jewish architect Wilhelm Stiassny, adding considerable ornamentation, and, in the opinion of architectural historian Rachel Wischnitzer, "the serene harmony of the design was spoiled by renovations." Damage inflicted on Kristallnacht was repaired in 1949. The synagogue was renovated once again in 1963 by Prof. Otto Niedermoser. Image Attribution: Bic (Wikimedia Commons), CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Seegasse Jewish Cemetery

The Jewish cemetery in Roßau, which is also known at the Seegasse Jewish cemetery because of its location in the Seegasse, is the oldest preserved cemetery in Vienna. Members of the city's Jewish community were buried here between 1540 and 1783. The Jewish cemetery lies in the suburb of Roßau in the 9th district of Vienna, Alsergrund, and covers an area of approximately 2000 m2. Today, the site is part of the yard of the old people's home in the Seegasse and can be accessed via the home. Where the home now stands, there used to be a Jewish establishment for quarantining the sick. In 1629, the Seegasse was known as the Gassel allwo der Juden Grabstätte and, from 1778 it was known as the Judengasse ("Jews' lane"). In 1862, it was renamed Seegasse (Lake lane) after a fish pond that used to be in the area which was described in a document from 1415 as a "lake". The Jewish cemetery in the Seegasse was created in the 16th century. Between 1540 and 1783, it was the main burial site for members of Vienna's Jewish community. Following a pogrom against Viennese Jews in 1670, the Jewish merchant Koppel Fränkel paid a sum of 4000 gulden, in return for which the city committed to maintain the cemetery. Use of the cemetery as a burial site continued thereafter until 1783, when emperor Joseph II forbade the use of all cemeteries within the city walls. A new cemetery for the Jewish community was created outside the city walls in the suburb of Währing (see Jewish Cemetery (Währing)). In line with the edicts of the Jewish religion, the cemetery in the Seegasse was left untouched, while Christian cemeteries within the city walls were closed and built over. In 1943, the Nazi authorities resolved to raze the cemetery and to build over the site. A group of engaged Viennese Jews responded by removing some of the gravestones, which they buried at the city's main cemetery, the Zentralfriedhof. In the 1980s, 280 of the 931 gravestones that were buried there were rediscovered and returned to their original homes as recorded in Bernhard Wachstein’s surveys of the cemetery from the 1910s. The cemetery was sanctified once again on 2 September 1984. The inscriptions on the gravestones in the cemetery are entirely in Hebrew.

Jewish Museum Vienna

The Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna is a place of encounter and understanding. It enables insights into Judaism, its holidays and customs, but also into youth culture. At its two locations, the Jewish Museum Vienna presents a unique overview of the history and the present-day life of Viennese Jews. We are looking forward to your visit! The Jewish Museum of the City of Vienna is a place of encounter, interaction and understanding, which seeks to raise awareness of Jewish history, religion, and culture. The first Jewish museum in the world was founded in Vienna in 1895, sponsored by a group of Viennese Jewish citizens. The collection focused on the culture and history of the Jews in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, particularly Vienna and Galicia. In the interwar years Zionist objects were added, reflecting the new political discussion at that time. The museum was closed by the Nazis in 1938 directly after the Anschluss. In the last year of its existence the inventory listed 6,474 objects. In 1939 the museum collection was transferred to the Museum of Ethnology and other institutions in Vienna. The Anthropology Department of the Natural History Museum in Vienna used some of the items for its anti-Semitic propaganda exhibition “The physical and psychological appearance of the Jews". Most of the objects were returned to the IKG Vienna in the early 1950s, although some were not restituted until the 1990s. Over half of the objects have disappeared; it is practically impossible to discover whether they were stolen or deliberately destroyed. Objects once listed in the Jewish Museum collection turn up occasionally on the art and antiques market. The surviving objects – on permanent loan from the IKG to the present-day Jewish Museum Vienna – form a unique component of the current collection.

Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial

The Judenplatz Holocaust Memorial also known as the Nameless Library stands in Judenplatz in the first district of Vienna. It is the central memorial for the Austrian victims of the Holocaust and was designed by the British artist Rachel Whiteread. The memorial is a steel and concrete construction with a base measuring 10 x 7 meters and a height of 3.8 meters. The outside surfaces of the volume are cast library shelves turned inside out. The spines of the books are facing inwards and are not visible, therefore the titles of the volumes are unknown and the content of the books remains unrevealed. The shelves of the memorial appear to hold endless copies of the same edition, which stand for the vast number of the victims, as well as the concept of Jews as "People of the Book." The double doors are cast with the panels inside out, and have no doorknobs or handles. They suggest the possibility of coming and going, but do not open. The memorial represents, in the style of Whiteread's "empty spaces", a library whose books are shown on the outside but are unreadable. The memorial can be understood as an appreciation of Judaism as a religion of the "book"; however, it also speaks of a cultural space of memory and loss created by the genocide of the European Jews. Through the emphasis of void and negative casting rather than positive form and material, it acts as a "counter monument" in this way opposite to the production through history of grandiose and triumphal monumental objects. As a work of art, the memorial was not intended to be beautiful and as such it contrasts with much of the Baroque art and architecture of Vienna. A member of the design jury had noticed a resemblance to a bunker and the military fortifications of the Atlantic wall were later confirmed by the artist as a source of inspiration for the project. There is an aspect of discomfort in the monument that was meant to provoke thought in the viewer through the memorial's severe presence. It was intended to evoke the tragedy and brutality of the Holocaust and in the words of Simon Wiesenthal at the unveiling, "This monument shouldn't be beautiful, It must hurt." Image attribution: Diana Ringo, CC BY-SA 3.0 AT , via Wikimedia Commons