4. Jewish Cultural Festival

Jewish Cultural Festival

28th June 2023 - 2nd July 2023
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Festivals
ABOUT THE EVENT

The first Jewish Cultural Festival took place in 1998 with the intent to introduce Jewish culture to people of other cultures. This included Jewish music, films, dance, art, and books.  The center of the event is in Great Synagogue on Dohany street, the second largest synagogue in the world.

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Exploring Jewish Culture in Kolkata, India - A Journey Through History

Introduction to Jewish Kolkata Jewish Kolkata is a city with a rich and diverse Jewish history. For centuries, Jewish people have lived in the city, bringing their culture and traditions to the bustling metropolis. From the Jewish Quarter of Bowbazar to famous Jewish figures who have left an indelible mark on Kolkata's cultural identity, there is much to explore when it comes to this unique aspect of Indian heritage. This article will take you through a journey of discovery as we uncover the Jewish roots of Kolkata and explore some of its most important sites, people, and places associated with its Jewish past. Let us begin our exploration into one of India's most fascinating cities! [caption id="attachment_46413" align="alignnone" width="1599"] Kolkata | Attribution: © Vyacheslav Argenberg / http://www.vascoplanet.com/, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Jewish Culture and History in Kolkata Early Jewish Life in Kolkata Jewish people have been living in Kolkata for centuries, with the earliest Jewish settlers arriving in the city as early as 1798. These pioneers of Jewish life were mostly Baghdadi Jews who had come from Iraq and other parts of the Middle East. They quickly established a thriving Jewish community, setting up businesses and places of worship such as synagogues. Life for these early Jewish settlers was hard but rewarding, with many finding success through their entrepreneurial spirit and industriousness. Despite facing prejudice and discrimination from some quarters, they managed to persevere and build a strong sense of Jewish identity within the city's diverse population. Jewish people in Kolkata have been contributing to the city's economy and culture for centuries. They quickly established businesses in various sectors such as trade, banking, manufacturing, and retail. They also contributed significantly to social development projects such as education initiatives for Jewish children and support for Jewish refugees who had fled persecution elsewhere. Their hard work enabled them to thrive despite the prejudice they faced from some quarters. It is clear that Jews played an important role in helping Kolkata become what it is today - a vibrant metropolis full of opportunity where cultures mix and mingle freely. Recent and Contemporary Jewish Life in Kolkata Jewish life in Kolkata today is a vibrant mix of Jewish traditions and modern culture. Jewish people continue to play an important role in the city's economy and culture, though their numbers have dwindled over the years. Today, there are approximately 3,000 Jews living in Kolkata, most of whom live in the Jewish Quarter of Bowbazar. The Jewish community here is close-knit and supportive, with multiple synagogues providing spiritual guidance for those who seek it. Despite its small size, this community has a strong sense of identity which can be seen through its commitment to preserving Jewish customs such as celebrating Shabbat each week or observing traditional holidays like Passover. In addition to its religious practices, members of the Jewish community also actively participate in cultural events hosted by other religions or organizations within Kolkata - evidence that they remain firmly embedded within India's melting pot society today. Iconic Attractions and Events in Kolkata The Jewish Quarter in Kolkata The Jewish Quarter in Kolkata is a testament to the vibrant Jewish heritage of the city. Located in the heart of Kolkata, this area has been home to Jewish people for centuries and is filled with places of Jewish cultural and religious importance. The Jewish Quarter consists of several synagogues, schools, cemeteries, shops, and other establishments that are frequented by Jews from all over India. It is also home to some famous Jewish figures who lived or died in the city such as Sir Elijah Moses Mocatta and Rabbi Solomon David Sassoon. Visitors can explore this quarter's rich history through its various monuments and buildings which have been preserved since colonial times. A visit to the Jewish Quarter will provide an insight into Kolkata's fascinating past while allowing visitors to experience its unique culture firsthand. Neveh Shalome Synagogue The Neveh Shalome Synagogue is a Jewish place of worship located in the Jewish Quarter of Kolkata. Built in 1884, it is one of the oldest synagogues in India and has been an important part of Jewish life since then. As one of the few surviving Jewish monuments in Kolkata, this synagogue is a reminder to all visitors about Jewish history and culture. It serves as a spiritual home for many Jews living in Kolkata today and continues to be used for religious services on certain days throughout the year. The synagogue also hosts special events such as lectures, concerts, and exhibitions that celebrate Jewish heritage and culture. Visitors can explore its rich interior filled with artifacts from different eras that tell stories about Jewish life over time. A visit to Neveh Shalome Synagogue will provide insight into the unique history and culture of Jews living in Kolkata today while allowing visitors to experience its beauty firsthand. [caption id="attachment_46407" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Neveh shalome synagogue | Attribution: Santanu072, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata The Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata is a historic landmark that serves as a reminder of the Jewish community's long history in the city. Located near the Jewish Quarter, this cemetery dates back to 1864 and contains hundreds of graves that tell stories about Jewish life in Kolkata through the years. It is an important site for many Jews living in Kolkata today, providing them with a place to remember their ancestors and reflect on their culture. The cemetery also hosts several events throughout the year which celebrate Jewish heritage, such as lectures and exhibitions highlighting Jewish contributions to local society. A visit to this cemetery will allow visitors to explore its rich history while gaining insight into Jewish life in modern-day Kolkata. Jewish Cementery of Kolkata | Attribution: Rangan Datta Wiki, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Popular Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball The Jewish community of Kolkata celebrates the Jewish holiday of Purim each year with a grand carnival and masquerade ball. This popular event is held at various locations around the city, attracting both Jewish and non-Jewish people alike. The carnival features traditional Jewish food, music, dance performances, games and activities for children, as well as costume competitions that bring out some of the most creative costumes from participants. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of attractions such as art installations, puppet shows and magicians to keep them entertained throughout the day. At nightfall, the festivities culminate in an extravagant Masquerade Ball where guests can dress up in elaborate costumes inspired by their favorite characters from Jewish folklore and literature. The Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball provides an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate Jewish culture while having fun doing so! Iconic Personalities of Kolkata Sir David Sassoon Sir David Sassoon was a Jewish businessman and philanthropist who left an indelible mark on the city of Kolkata. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, he moved to India as a young man and quickly established himself as one of the most successful traders in the region. He used his wealth to give back to the Jewish community by building factories, schools, hospitals and other institutions that helped improve Jewish life in Kolkata. In addition to providing economic opportunities for Jewish families, Sir David also supported Jewish culture through his patronage of Jewish festivals such as Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball. His legacy lives on today through these institutions which continue to serve people from all backgrounds living in this vibrant city. Sir David Sassoon passed away at his home in Kolkata at the age of 91 after living there for over 70 years. David Sassoon | Attribution: Arnold Wright, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons  Ruth Prawer Jhabvala Ruth Prawer Jhabvala was a Jewish writer from a Polish-Jewish background living in India when she won two Academy Awards for her screenplays ‘A Room With A View’ (1985) and ‘Howards End’ (1992). She was one of the first female authors to win this prestigious award while writing about Indian cinema with its unique history intertwined with Jewish culture. Ruth Prawer Jhabvala's life and works are closely linked to the city of Kolkata, where she spent many years researching Jewish culture and discovering stories that would later become part of her work. Her writings shed light on Jewish identity in India during a time when it wasn't easy to be different or express oneself freely. Through her work, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala not only made an impact on Jewish communities in Kolkata but also around the world. Although Ruth Prawer Jhabvala passed away in 2013 at the age of 85 in New York City, she will always be remembered for her contributions to both Indian and Jewish culture throughout her life. [caption id="attachment_46411" align="alignnone" width="640"] Ruth Prawer Jhabvala | Attribution: Gotfryd, Bernard, photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Summary of Kolkata's Jewish Story Jewish culture in Kolkata is a unique and fascinating story of struggle, success, and resilience. From Sir David Sassoon to Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, the city has been home to Jewish figures who have left an indelible mark on both Jewish life and Indian cinema alike. Today, visitors can explore this rich history by visiting places like the Jewish Quarter or attending events such as Purim Carnival & Masquerade Ball which celebrate Jewish culture while having fun doing so! Whether you’re interested in learning more about how Jews lived during British rule or discovering stories of iconic Jewish personalities from India’s past, Kolkata offers something for everyone looking to uncover its Jewish roots.
Blogs

Discovering a Timeless Legacy: The Story Behind Jewish Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Introduction to Jewish Samarkand Samarkand, a city located in Uzbekistan on the ancient Silk Road, has been home to Jewish people for centuries. Its rich and diverse history is deeply intertwined with its vibrant Jewish culture, which can still be seen today in its architecture, synagogues, mosques, mausoleums and monuments dedicated to famous figures from Samarkand's past. This article will explore how Jews have shaped this city over time and what it means to experience modern-day Jewish life in Samarkand. It will also provide an overview of places of cultural and religious importance for those wishing to discover this unique part of Central Asia’s history as well as introduce some of the famous Jewish figures who lived or died there. [caption id="attachment_46387" align="alignnone" width="960"] Historic Holy Cemetery of Shahi Zinda in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | MehmetO via Canva[/caption] Jewish Culture and History in Samarkand Early Jewish Life in Samarkand When Timur-Leng, the Turco-Mongol conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire in and around modern-day Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia, made Samarkand the capital of his empire. He brought there many thousands of carpet weavers, silk dyers, artisans, and merchants from many cities he had conquered, and among them some Jews and Christians from Kurdistan and Northern Syria. In Samarkand, the Jewish deportees adopted the Eastern Persian idiom of the local Jewish (and Muslim) inhabitants. Those Jews, who shaped the character of the community, would much later be known as “Bukharan Jews.” The term “Bukharan Jews” refers to the Central Asian Jews of the khanate of Bukhara, those of Samarkand, and the Ferghana Valley. Today, the region is divided between the former Soviet republics of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The majority of Bukharan Jews live in the Uzbek cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, and Kokand, in Tajikistan's capital, Dushanbe, and in Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek. Also, a large number of Bukharan Jews have made aliyah and have congregated in Jerusalem. [caption id="attachment_46388" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Shrine of Timur in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Willard84, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Nowadays, the Jews of Central Asia are either “Bukharan” because they are descendants of the former subjects of the Emir of Bukhara, or else they are Ashkenazi Jews who settled there in the Russian Imperial period beginning in the 1860s, with the addition of political deportees in the Soviet period and Polish refugees who were fleeing Hitler. Recent Jewish Life in Samarkand In territories under direct Russian rule, Jews enjoyed personal liberties and economic opportunities unheard of under the ancient régime. Jewish families made big fortunes on trade with Russia proper, India, Persia, and Western Europe. The growth of the community attracted immigrants from Meshhed (Muslim crypto-Jews) and Afghanistan, where in 1885, the government confiscated the property of 250 Jews and expelled them, with their families, to Termez, wherefrom they proceeded to Samarkand. It also attracted Baha’is from Persia, some of whom were former converts from Judaism.  [caption id="attachment_46386" align="alignnone" width="640"] Jewish Children with their Teacher in Samarkand | | Sergei Prokudin-Gorskii, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] In 1889, the new wave of immigration from Samarkand to the Holy Land began, being thus the third “modern” wave of ‘aliyah in the 1880s. In 1891, a new neighborhood—Rehoboth, or Rehoboth ha-Bukharim—arose in Jerusalem, with some 500 persons participating in the project. The neighborhood would evolve into the famous Bukharan Quarter of New Jerusalem, a beautifully built area with “palaces” of rich merchant families. Jews in Modern-Day Samarkand Approximately 4,200 Jews remain in Uzbekistan, mainly in Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent, the major Jewish cultural centers. The Jewish Agency, Chabad and the Joint Distribution Committee are the most visible Jewish organizations in the country, providing Jewish education through schools and summer camps. The Jewish Agency sponsors a moadon (youth center) in several cities, including Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and some smaller cities in the Fergana Valley, like Andijan.  In July 2001, more than 250 children attended the Jewish Agency's summer seminar on the outskirts of the capital, Tashkent, a 10-day lesson on Israel and Judaism. The campers, ages 10-16, came from all over Uzbekistan (which is slightly larger than California). And while their knowledge of Jewish topics ranged widely, they all shared a Jewish identity, singing Hebrew songs, baking challah and drawing pictures of the Kotel. Some even spoke Hebrew, others kept kosher and rested on Shabbat. Most Uzbek Jews today speak Russian. Historically, they spoke a Jewish dialect of Tajik which is still spoken in Bukhara and Samarkand. In addition, some speak English, Hebrew and Uzbek. Unfortunately, among adults, there is little mixing between Ashkenazim and Bukharim. About 2,000 Jews live in Samarkand today and some of the top Jewish attractions include a synagogue, the old Jewish quarter, and a Jewish cemetery. [caption id="attachment_46389" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jewish Quarter in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Uzbek Travel https://uzbek-travel.com[/caption] Iconic Attractions and Events in Samarkand The Jewish Quarter The Jewish Quarter of Samarkand is a vibrant and bustling area that has been home to the city’s Jewish population for centuries. Located in the heart of the city, it is full of synagogues, religious schools, and other places of worship that celebrate this unique cultural identity. The quarter also houses some of Samarkand's most important monuments dedicated to famous figures from its past such as Alexander Sverdlin and Shimon Dubnov. Visitors will find an abundance of restaurants offering traditional Uzbek cuisine as well as shops selling handmade crafts by local artisans – all within easy reach from this historic neighborhood. It’s no wonder why so many people flock to experience what it means to discover a timeless legacy in Samarkand today! The Gumbaz Synagogue The Gumbaz Synagogue is the only Jewish landmark inside the city, and it dates back to the end of the nineteenth century, specifically to the year 1891. This Jewish landmark is characterized by being influenced by the Islamic architecture surrounding it, and added wonderful decorations and mosaics on its walls and domes, and made the merging of European and Islamic details of the building a matter. Very unique and an important tourist attraction. Visitors to the synagogue will also find pictures of former rabbis, Stars of David, carved doors, and much more. Learn more. [caption id="attachment_46385" align="alignnone" width="900"] Gumbaz Synagogue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Demerzel21 via Canva[/caption] Gumbaz Synagogue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Demerzel21 via Canva The Tomb of Daniel The Tomb of Daniel reputedly holds the remains of the Old Testament prophet Daniel, revered by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike – although only Christians regard him as a prophet. As legend has it, Timur tried to conquer modern day Syria, but successively failed – apparently because the body of Daniel was preventing his success.  [caption id="attachment_46390" align="alignnone" width="800"] Tomb of Daniel in Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Vaurien, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/de/deed.en>, via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The Samarkand Jewish Food Festival  The Samarkand Jewish Food Festival is an annual celebration of the city's rich and vibrant Jewish culture, where visitors can sample a variety of delicious dishes that have been prepared according to traditional recipes. Held in the heart of the city's Jewish Quarter, this popular event draws people from far and wide who come to savor a range of authentic cuisine. From succulent meats cooked over open fires to sweet treats made with honey and almonds, there is something for everyone at this mouth-watering festival! Visitors can also enjoy live music performances while they eat, making it a truly unique experience. Whether you're looking for a taste of history or just want some delicious food, the Samarkand Jewish Food Festival has it all! Iconic Personalities of Samarkand Alexander Sverdlin Alexander Sverdlin was a Jewish scholar and rabbi who lived in Samarkand during the 18th century. He is best known for his contributions to Jewish thought and culture, which helped shape the city into what it is today. As one of the most influential figures in Samarkand's history, Sverdlin wrote extensively on topics such as Talmud and Torah studies, religious law, philosophy, ethics, and literature. His works were widely read throughout Europe at the time and laid the foundations for modern Judaism around the world. He also founded a school in Samarkand that taught students from all backgrounds about Jewish faith, culture, and tradition – an institution that continues to thrive centuries later. To this day Alexander Sverdlin remains an important figure in Samarkand’s vibrant Jewish community; his legacy lives on through those who continue to practice their faith there. Shimon Dubnov  Shimon Dubnov is an important figure in the history of Samarkand's Jewish community. He was born into a prominent family in the city and went on to become a renowned scholar, author, historian, and philosopher. Dubnov wrote extensively about Jewish culture and tradition, particularly focusing on the Silk Road area where he spent much of his life. His works helped shape modern Judaism around the world by introducing new ideas about religion, ethics, philosophy, and literature. Dubnov also founded several schools in Samarkand that taught students from all backgrounds about their faith – institutions that still exist today! Shimon Dubnov was instrumental in preserving Jewish heritage during difficult times for Jews around the world; he remains an integral part of Samarkand’s vibrant past and present. Summary of Samarkand’s Jewish Story Samarkand is home to a vibrant and long-standing Jewish community that has helped shape the city’s culture for centuries. From the Tomb of Daniel, an important pilgrimage site for Jews around the world, to the annual Samarkand Jewish Food Festival where visitors can sample traditional cuisine, there are plenty of opportunities to experience something truly special while visiting this historic city. Notable figures like Alexander Sverdlin and Shimon Dubnov have also left their mark on Samarkand's history; they remain integral parts of its present-day identity as well. Whether you're interested in learning more about Judaism or just want to explore some fascinating places with unique cultures, Samarkand should be at the top of your list!
Hotels

White Palace Old City Boutique Hotel

Our business life, which started in Sultanahmet, the most visited touristic region of Istanbul in 1987, continues with the opening of our hotel in December 2021. Our hotel, located in Sultanahmet, at Actor Sokak No:26, is within walking distance of the most visited museums, mosques, churches, parks and performance areas in the historical peninsula. You can visit thousands of hundreds of years old structures, museums and open spaces that have hosted different cultures in about five minutes by walking through the narrow streets filled with nostalgia-filled historical houses. Places you can visit after leaving your hotel throughout the day: Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, Hürrem Sultan Bath, Theodosius Obelisk, German Fountain, Million Stones, Yerabatan Cistern, Gülhane Park, Beyazıt Square, Grand Bazaar. Our hotel is close to the tram stop in Sultanahmet, making it easier for you to visit touristic spots in more distant areas. For those who want to join the Bosphorus tour, which is one of the must-do activities in Istanbul, Ahırkapı Pier is only a few minutes' walk from our hotel. Yenikapı Event area, where various shows, social events and concerts are held, is only 10 minutes away by taxi. You can choose our hotel for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday in a classically restored mansion in the heart of Istanbul, which has hosted civilizations throughout history.
Hotels

Hotel Turkish House

The building was made from wood at the end of 18th century and it is situated at Sultanahmet quarter, which is at the core of the old Istanbul, the capital city of three great civilizations. The Sultanahmet Mosque and it’s social complex, the Sultanahmet square, where the building is situated, are surrounded by the Great Palace constructed during the Byzantine Empire era. The garden wall of the Great Palace is surviving today; you can take your breakfast at the shadow of the Great Palace wall at the Hotel Turkish House Sultanahmet; during the reconstruction of the hotel, structure remnants dating from the late Byzantine early Ottoman era were found; they were taken under protection as first degree archeological remnants and offered to the appreciation of hotel guests, being visible under a glass corridor. The historical building was reconstructed in traditional wood carcass system and architectural style, as in the original structure. The traditional “lath and plaster” technique is made through hammering wood lath on wood carcass with lime mortar. Wall and floor panels made with İznik tiles, which is a traditional Turkish art, bordures as well as ceramics are used in the building. Again wall motifs called “hand-drawn”, an Ottoman Turkish hand craft are drawn by artists. Stone wall technique is performed in the garden with original “Khorasan Coating”, “the marble of Marmara” is used in the bathrooms. The traditional wooden Turkish house built at Sultanahmet, Istanbul is an historical cultural asset, which should be preserved; the Hotel shall provide accommodation for its guests as a boutique hotel under the name of Hotel Turkish House Sultanahmet.
Restaurants

Yad La Casa Catering

Matan Baseter, one of the oldest institutions of the Turkish Jewish Community in terms of social assistance and solidarity, has contributed to the proper and honorable life of thousands of people/ family in need for more than a century. This helping hand, which has extended to those in need since 1917, took its place in a roof organization that includes other social services as well as Matan Baseter as a result of an evolutionary process that will catch up with the new generation today: YAD. ‘YAD’ means ‘EL’ in Hebrew. In a sense in Turkish, 'EL' means foreigner. At the same time, ‘EL’ is the hand extended for help. It reminds you of always being ready to help. For this reason, the purpose of YAD's existence is to provide opportunities to ensure the continuity and sustainability of Jewish life (society), to improve the opportunities for those in need in our society to lead a respectable life, to make them feel happy, to reach and touch them, to take care to help.
Restaurants

Caffe Eden

Caffe Eden, which is opened in the center of Ortaköy, is at the service of those who want to eat kosher meat, burgers, doner kebabs, lahmacun and pita bread. All meat served in the new kosher cafe / restaurant are produced in specially supervised facilities. The animals, which are slaughtered by the supervised martyrs in accordance with the martyr's rules, are delivered to the restaurant in accordance with the hygiene conditions after all the necessary controls are carried out. Caffe Eden's kitchen and food are constantly supervised by the observer in the restaurant. Caffe Eden has been adding new products to its menu every week since the day it opened. The disruptions seen in the opening and trial production processes are quickly eliminated and going further every day. Classic doner flip, meatballs, wet hamburger, New York hamburger, meat pita and crispy lahmacun are among the most sought after varieties by customers. Every Wednesday, special chicken doner kebab day is offered to those who prefer chicken. Caffe Eden, where specialties such as liver and stuffed meatballs will be offered on special occasions, offers its restaurant customers, which are freshly prepared every day, and are hosted in a warm atmosphere as if guests come to their homes. Caffe Eden also provides motor service to Bebek, Gayrettepe, Beşiktaş, Arnavutköy, Kuruçeşme, Ulus, Etiler, considering match days and meetings, when it is not desired to leave the house, when guests are hosted at home. In addition to these varieties, which are offered fresh daily, Denet market products can also be purchased from the restaurant. When a special order is placed, sluder liver, stony, wing, tongue orders that cannot be found everywhere can also be prepared and sent to the houses. A different feature of Caffe Eden is that between 15.00- 17.30 except Sunday, a 20 percent discount is applied to the products in the menu.

Guides

Bulent Aslan

Welcome to Bulent Aslan's Home Page. I highly appreciate your visit. It will be my pleasure to guide you in this beautiful city of Istanbul where I lost myself. The life of one citizen is not enough to explore this city. I hope it can inspire you at least. I was born on January 20th 1975 in Istanbul and grew up in Izmir. Since my early childhood I always enjoyed travelling and exploring ancient civilisations. I learned English at the American College Institiute and studied tourism and hotel management at Bilkent University Ankara. My Professional Guiding Licence was issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of the Republic of Turkey, after graduation. I work as a freelance tour guide all around Turkey. I also guide for Turkish people all around the world and have been to more than 40 countries. As you see I can understand the needs and wants of international travellers. I am at your service for day tours or a round trip of Turkey. I will make sure to make your stay UNFORGETABLE…
Guides

Edip Arslan

I have been guiding in Turkey since 1997. There are 81 cities in Turkey and I have guided many times in 78 of them. I love our country's rich history but it's my passion to help my guests have an amazing time while touring as well as comprehend the details of our remarkable history. It has been my honor to guide so many visitors here to Turkey including Mr. Ahmet Ertegun, the owner of Atlantic Records, and Father Bartelamaos, the Greek Orthodox Patri Arch based in Istanbul who has taught me a lot about Greek Orthodox history here in Turkey. I've also been honored to guide the President of Caraiben islands and the senators of North Carolina & Chicago. As an English-speaking guide, I have hosted guests from all over the world whose shared langauge with me is English. I am passionate about "out of the way", cultural, Turkish cuisine, and unique shopping experiences.
Tours

Jewish Heritage Tour in Istanbul

Learn the background story of the Jewish heritage in Istanbul. Our walk includes a deep understanding of the story of the Jewish population in Istanbul with the lead of a specialist guide. On the midnight of August 2, 1492, when Columbus embarked on what would become his most famous expedition to the New World, his fleet departed from the relatively unknown seaport of Palos because the shipping lanes of Cadiz and Seville were clogged with Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain by the Edict of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. Where would they go? In the faraway Ottoman Empire, one ruler extended an immediate welcome to the persecuted Jews of Spain, the Sephardim. For 300 years following the expulsion, the prosperity and creativity of the Ottoman Jews rivaled that of the Golden Age of Spain. Today, the Jewish community in Turkey is composed of about 26,000 people, and most of them live in Istanbul. Jewish Museum of Turkey The museum is a well-designed place to learn the story of 700 years of amity between Turks and Jews. The mission of the museum is to collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret, and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews. It’s an opportunity to understand the local Jewish heritage in Istanbul. Ahrida Synagogue Located in Balat near the Golden Horn, built by Jews of Ohri (Macedonia) more than 550 years ago and recently renovated during the Quincentennial Celebrations in 1992, the Ahrida Synagogue is known foremost for its boat-shaped bimah. The Town of Balat Balat housed the first Jews who settled in Istanbul after the Spanish expulsion. Today, it’s a middle-class neighborhood. As you walk through the town, you can see the oldest Jewish houses with their proud stars of David.
Tours

Istanbul Jewish Heritage Tour

Welcome to our IJHT website ( Istanbul Jewish / Synagogues Heritage Tours ). Security in the Jewish community is very tight and To arrange the entries to the synagogues that we need to get your passport copies at least two days before the visits. This process is necessary by the Chief Rabbinate Office. Please note that the synagogues Require Entrance Fees which is included in our each Jewish / Synagogues Tour in Istanbul...An essential prelude to visit to any synagogue in Istanbul is contact with the Jewish Heritage Tour / Senguler Travel company in Sultanahmet Istanbul. s a Jewish Travel agency in Istanbul that we are specialized in Jewish Heritage / Synagogue Tours of Istanbul. By our Private Istanbul Jewish Tours, our professional tour guides will guide you through the old and new Jewish Neighborhoods of Istanbul. While visiting the synagogues in Istanbul, you will receive comprehensive information about the past and present Jewish life in Istanbul. Like our other private tours in Istanbul, we also custom design our private Jewish tours. We may also create itineraries that combine the Jewish sites with main sites Istanbul if our guests prefer to do so. Our agency provides the best Jewish tours in Istanbul since 2010 ...
Sites

Jewish Museum of Turkey

The Quincentennial Foundation Museum Of Turkish Jews, which has been in service since 2001 in Karaköy Perçemli Street, has welcomed its visitors to its new complex, The Neve Shalom Synagogue in December 2015 with its updated content and modern exhibition technologies. The museum consists of the presentation of the 2600 years of historical and cultural heritage of Turkish Jews in this land, their contributions to the social and state life of the country they live in; of sections presenting the history,the ethnography,The Midrash, where religious objects are exhibited, the traditions, the life cycle and the settlements. The midway hall, which establishes the physical connection between the Museum and Neve Shalom, which is located on 3 floors, enables the live viewing of religious ceremonies in the synagogue. Witnessing rituals such as circumcision, weddings and Bar Mitzvah actually makes the museum visitor a part of the ceremony. Equipped with contemporary museum concepts, interactive panels have been designed and technology has found its place in the museum with touch screens. In the Cultural Center, which is located in the basement and used for temporary exhibitions, periodical exhibitions are frequently held. In 2001, the Synagogue was put into service as a museum, with the valuable contributions of the Kamhi family, Naim A. Güleryüz's suggestions and design, within the framework of the celebration program by The Quincentennial Foundation. The building maintained this function until 2015.
Sites

Hasköy Jewish Cemetery

Haskoy is one of the oldest districts where Jews used to live and one of the older still-used Jewish cemeteries is located there. During the many centuries the Haskoy Cemetery was used, as a result of earthquakes as well as the destructive intrusions of private people and official authorities, the plot has been significantly reduced. Especially in 1972 when highways and the Golden Horn Bridge were being built, hundreds of tombstones had to be moved.
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