The Mate Yehuda Wine Festival is a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich winemaking heritage, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and history. This annual event, which traces its origins back to ancient times, is held in the picturesque Judean Hills, a region renowned for its scenic beauty and fertile vineyards. The festival honors the centuries-old winemaking practices that have been passed down through generations, highlighting the cultural significance of wine in Jewish life. Attendees are invited to explore a tapestry of stories, from the early days of viticulture in Israel to the modern-day innovations that continue to push the boundaries of the craft.
Experience the Festivities and Flavors
Visitors to the Mate Yehuda Wine Festival can immerse themselves in a variety of activities designed to celebrate this storied tradition. The festival features wine tastings from local wineries, offering a chance to savor a range of exquisite flavors and aromas. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in traditional Jewish foods paired perfectly with selected wines, while music and dance performances add to the festive atmosphere. The event also serves as a gathering place for wine enthusiasts and members of the Jewish community, fostering a shared appreciation for the art of winemaking and its role in Jewish culture. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage, the Mate Yehuda Wine Festival promises an unforgettable experience.
Image attribution:
All from: <https://www.m-yehuda.org.il/events/8240/>
This Tour of 6 to 7 hours in the afternoon is available for
travelers arriving Cochin by sea, air or by surface. They will be picked up
from the Kochi Sea Port or Kochi Airport. The participants of this tour can
also be picked up from the lobby of the hotel where they are booked to stay in Kochi.
A Local Tour Guide will be with the group. The tour will be conducted in an A/C
minivan or car or coach.
Itinerary.
At Jewish Town visits include, Synagogue, walk through the
shopping areas and Dutch Palace.
At Fort Kochi tour visits Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis
Church with the first Tomb of Vasco da Gama and a walk through the by lanes of
Fort Kochi.
Later the group is taken to the theatre for Classical dance
of Kerala, ‘Kathakali’.
After the dance the group is taken to the area where street
food is popular. Spend 1 hour to enjoy the local food in wayside eateries.
The passengers are then returned to picked-up points or to
mutually agreed points.
The tour involves travel to Jewish Town where the Paradesi
Synagogue is located. Around this ancient synagogue the preserved Jews streets
are explored. Time is spending on wandering the streets where stores you can
hunt for gifts to people back home.
After a short visit to the Dutch Palace (the old palace of
Cochin rulers), Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church with tomb of Vasco de
Gama, we drive to ancient Jewish settlements at towns like Paravoor,
Chendamangalm aka Muziris.
Later sit for lunch in a beach restaurant for lunch.
After lunch drive back to Cochin. En route the tour goes to
the modern city of Kochi where there is the preserved and the reputed
Kadavumbhagom Synagogue of Malabar Jews or black Jews. After this visit If you
prefer tour will also give a look around the vegetable, fruits, and spice
market in the area.
The drives to and from the above places provides insights to
the life of people in villages on the way.
Paris, the city of lights, love, and rich history, has a fascinating Jewish story that dates back centuries. From the vibrant Pletzl to the moving Memorial de la Shoah, Paris is home to numerous sites that tell the tale of Jewish resilience, culture, and contribution. This blog will take you on a historical and cultural tour, exploring the Jewish heritage of this iconic city.
Early Jewish Life in Paris
Jewish life in Paris dates back to the Roman period when the first Jews settled in the city. By the 6th century, a thriving Jewish community had established itself, engaging in various trades and contributing significantly to the city’s economy. However, life was not always easy for Jews in Paris. They faced periods of persecution, notably during the Crusades and the expulsion decreed by King Philip IV in 1306.
Jewish Contributions and Society
Despite these challenges, Jews continued to make significant contributions to Parisian society. They were involved in various professions, including banking, medicine, and commerce. Jewish scholars and merchants played a crucial role in the intellectual and economic development of Paris, establishing a legacy of resilience and ingenuity.
Holocaust
The Holocaust represents one of the darkest chapters in Jewish history, and its impact on Paris was profound. The Nazi occupation of France led to the deportation and murder of tens of thousands of French Jews, decimating the Jewish population in the city. Life for Jews during this time was marked by fear, betrayal, and loss.
Many Jewish families were torn apart, their homes and businesses confiscated, and their very identities threatened. In the aftermath of the Holocaust, the Jewish community in Paris was left to rebuild from the ruins, with survivors striving to reclaim their cultural and religious identities amid lingering memories of the past.
Modern Jewish Life in Paris
Today, Jewish life in Paris is vibrant and dynamic, with the Marais District, also known as the Pletzl, at its heart. This area, rich in Jewish heritage, is filled with kosher bakeries, synagogues, and cultural centers, offering a glimpse into contemporary Jewish life. Paris has approximately 350,000 Jews residing in the city
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, with numerous Jewish events, festivals, and guided tours that celebrate the enduring spirit of the community. Jewish Paris is not just about history; it is a living, breathing testament to the resilience and contributions of its people.
Montmartre, France – Photo by Alexander Spatari on GettyImages
The Pletzl – Jewish Quarter of Paris
Nestled in the heart of the Marais District, the Pletzl is a lively testament to Jewish resilience and culture. Walking through its cobblestone streets, visitors are greeted by the aromas of traditional Jewish foods and the vibrant chatter of locals. This historic quarter offers a deep connection to Jewish Paris, with many shops and bakeries that have been family-run for generations.
The Pletzl is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a living museum. With historic synagogues and kosher restaurants dotting the area, it provides a unique insight into the everyday lives of Parisian Jews. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Agoudas Hakehilos Synagogue and partake in guided walking tours that narrate the rich history and stories of the Jewish community in Paris.
Shoah Memorial – Photo by Pascal Deloche on Getty Images
Memorial de la Shoah
The Memorial de la Shoah is a deeply moving site dedicated to the memory of the Holocaust victims. Located in the heart of Paris, it serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. The memorial includes a museum, documentation center, and the Wall of Names, which lists the names of the 76,000 Jews deported from France. It’s a significant site for reflection and education about the Holocaust.
Synagogue de Paris – Photo by Luiza Fediuc on Wikimedia Commons
Grand Synagogue de Paris
The Grand Synagogue de Paris, also known as Synagogue de la Victoire, is one of the most prominent Jewish landmarks in the city. Built in 1874, this stunning synagogue is an architectural marvel and a symbol of the Jewish community’s enduring presence in Paris. It serves as a place of worship, celebration, and community gatherings, embodying the spirit of Jewish life in the city.
The statue of Captain Dreyfus in the courtyard of the Hôtel de Saint-Aignan – Photo by Marie-Pierre Delaporte on Wikimedia Commons
Jewish Museum of Art and History
The Jewish Museum of Art and History, located in the Hôtel de Saint-Aignan, is a treasure trove of Jewish culture and heritage. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, artworks, and documents that reflect the rich history and diverse traditions of Jews in France and beyond. It offers visitors a comprehensive understanding of Jewish life, from ancient times to the modern era.
Festival of Jewish Cultures
The Festival of Jewish Cultures is an annual event that celebrates the richness and diversity of Jewish heritage. Held in various venues across Paris, the festival features a wide range of activities, including concerts, film screenings, lectures, and culinary events. It’s an opportunity for both Jews and non-Jews to experience and appreciate the vibrant culture, traditions, and contributions of the Jewish community.
Alfred Dreyfus
Alfred Dreyfus, a French military officer, became a central figure in one of the most infamous episodes of anti-Semitism in history, known as the Dreyfus Affair. Born in Mulhouse in 1859, Dreyfus was falsely accused of treason in 1894. His wrongful conviction divided France and ignited widespread debates about anti-Semitism and justice. Dreyfus spent years fighting to clear his name, eventually being exonerated in 1906.
Though not born in Paris, Dreyfus spent much of his life in the city, where he was buried in the Montparnasse Cemetery. His legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and justice, with various monuments commemorating his contribution to the fight against anti-Semitism.
Marie Curie
Marie Curie, a pioneering scientist renowned for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity, is perhaps less known for her Jewish heritage. Born in Warsaw in 1867, Curie’s exceptional contributions to science earned her two Nobel Prizes, making her the first woman to achieve such a feat. Curie’s work changed the course of scientific inquiry, paving the way for advancements in medicine and physics.
Though not of Parisian birth, Curie spent much of her life in Paris, where she conducted her research and lectured at the Sorbonne. She passed away in 1934 and is interred in the Panthéon, an honor reserved for France’s most distinguished individuals. Her legacy is celebrated in numerous institutions across Paris, inspiring future generations of scientists.
Conclusion
The Jewish story of Paris is one of resilience, contribution, and vibrant culture. From the early settlers to the modern-day community, Jews have played an integral role in shaping the city’s history and identity. Whether you’re exploring the historic Pletzl, reflecting at the Memorial de la Shoah, or attending the Festival of Jewish Cultures, Paris offers a rich tapestry of Jewish heritage waiting to be discovered.
The annual Day of Jewish Monuments in the Czech Republic is a unique cultural event that opens the doors to 58 Jewish monuments scattered across Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia. This special event invites visitors to explore these historic sites free of charge or for a voluntary contribution. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or someone keen on discovering hidden gems, this day offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Jewish heritage of the region.
Significance of the Event
This year’s roster includes both well-known landmarks and lesser-known sites that are usually closed to the public. For example, visitors in Prague can explore the Jerusalem (or Jubilee) synagogue, while those willing to venture off the beaten path will find treasures in Pacov, Mikulov, and Černovice. Many of these sites have recently undergone extensive renovations or are currently being restored, adding an extra layer of fascination to your visit. In addition to exploring these historic monuments, visitors can enjoy various programs such as guided tours and concerts, enriching the experience with context and ambiance. Mark your calendars for this inspiring day and prepare to be captivated by the stories and beauty of Jewish monuments in the Czech Republic.
We cherish Shabbat, our weekly tradition in Judaism, and celebrate the end of the week with a feast that has been observed for thousands of years. Step into the warm embrace of Maschi’s home, where she welcomes travelers from around the world and makes you feel like part of her family for an evening.
• Savor an array of delectable kosher dishes in a multi-course evening feast.
• Immerse yourself in an extraordinary evening, experiencing the profound significance of Shabbat.
• Relish Viennese and Eastern Europe-inspired delights, from Gehackte Leber, Gefilte Fish, and Beefbroth with Krepelech to sizzling roast beef and Kugel, Kompott, and fresh Challah.
• Feel welcomed in the home of gracious hosts who take joy in inviting guests from around the globe to share their heritage and hospitality.
Experience the Joyful Celebration of Jewish Heritage and Art at the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Jewish culture at the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival, an annual celebration that transforms Budapest into a vibrant hub of heritage and artistic expression. This premier Jewish festival showcases nearly 200 talented performers, offering visitors a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Jewish culture. From music and dance to visual arts and culinary delights, the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival offers a diverse array of events that highlight the multifaceted nature of Jewish heritage. This year’s festival promises a special treat with the world premiere of an international musical collaboration, bringing together artists from around the globe to create a unique and memorable experience.
Celebrate 25 Years of Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival
Join us in celebrating a quarter of a century of the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival, an event that has grown to become a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar. Over the past 25 years, the festival has not only provided a platform for Jewish artists and performers but has also fostered a sense of community and cultural pride. We invite you to be part of the festivities and share in the love and passion that has sustained this vibrant community tradition. From intimate encounters with artists to grand performances in iconic venues, the festival offers something for everyone. Dive into the millennial Jewish tradition, explore the cultural and artistic wonders, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Budapest.
A Diverse Array of Artistic and Literary Programs at the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival
The Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival features a wide and varied program spanning 10 days, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The festival’s artistic and literary offerings include concerts, literary productions, and dance performances, showcasing both Hungarian and international talent. Among the diverse musical performances, you’ll find everything from klezmer and Yiddish music to classical and popular music concerts. Notable performers include the Budapest Klezmer Band, the Sabbathsong Klezmer Band, László Dés, the Omri Mor Trio, Péter Müller Sziámi, Voices of Yemen, Andrea Malek, and Andrea Szulák. These performances highlight the rich tapestry of Jewish musical tradition and contemporary expression within the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival.
Featured Performances at the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival
The Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival features a variety of captivating performances that showcase the rich diversity of Jewish culture. One highlight is the Budapest Klezmer Band concert, set to take place at the historic Dohány Street Synagogue. The band, renowned for its lively and emotional klezmer music, will be joined by special guests Katica Illényi and Szilveszter Szabó P., promising an unforgettable evening.
Another standout performance is the world premiere of “Yiddishe Máme Jukebox,” a musical extravaganza led by Leonid Gutkin and performed by the Binah Orchestra. This unique concert blends traditional Jewish melodies with contemporary music, offering a fresh and exciting experience for audiences. Both performances exemplify the festival’s commitment to celebrating Jewish heritage through exceptional artistic expression.
Celebrating Jewish Heritage in Sacred Venues
The Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival takes place in special locations. The festival’s events are held in historic and sacred sites, including the Dohány Street Synagogue, the Rumbach Street Synagogue, the Frankel Leó Street Synagogue, the Hegedűs Gyula Street Synagogue, and the Bálint House, which is central to the Hungarian Jewish community. These venues not only provide a unique cultural experience but also offer insights into the diversity and richness of Jewish culture and history. Attendees of the Budapest Jewish Cultural Festival will have the opportunity to enjoy world-class performances in settings that hold deep historical and cultural significance.
Nestled in the heart of Spain lies the majestic city of Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval walls and rich history. However, beyond its surface, Avila holds a profound story of Jewish heritage that has shaped its cultural and historical landscape. In this blog, we will explore the Jewish story of Avila, from its early days to modern times, uncovering the significant contributions and the enduring legacy of the Jewish community.
Early Jewish Life in Avila
The Jewish presence in Avila dates back to the 11th century when the city became a haven for Jews escaping persecution. The community quickly flourished, contributing significantly to Avila’s economic and cultural development. Jews in Avila were involved in various professions, including trade, crafts, and medicine. They played a crucial role in the city’s commerce, establishing themselves as respected members of society.
Contributions to Society
Jews in Avila were not only merchants but also scholars and intellectuals. They contributed to the fields of science, philosophy, and literature. The Jewish Quarter, known as Juderia, became a vibrant center of learning and culture, where Jewish scholars engaged in intellectual pursuits and exchanged ideas with their Christian and Muslim counterparts.
Catastrophic Events and Their Impact
However, the peaceful coexistence was shattered by the catastrophic event of the Spanish Inquisition in the late 15th century. Jews were forced to convert to Christianity or face expulsion. This edict led to the mass exodus of Jews from Avila, profoundly impacting the community and altering the course of Jewish life in the region. The Jewish Quarter was left deserted, and many of its treasures were lost to history.
Modern Jewish Life in Avila
Today, the Jewish presence in Avila has dwindled, but the legacy of the Jewish community endures through historical sites and cultural initiatives. Efforts have been made to preserve and commemorate the Jewish heritage of Avila, with various organizations working to restore Jewish landmarks and educate the public about the city’s Jewish past.
Sites and Visitor Attractions
Ávila Jewish Quarter- Photo by Britchi Mirela on Wikimedia Commons
Avila Jewish Quarter
The Avila Jewish Quarter, known as Juderia, is a historic district that once thrived with Jewish life. Walking through its narrow streets and ancient alleys, visitors can imagine the vibrant community that once inhabited this area. Although many of the original structures have been lost, remnants like the old synagogue and Hebrew inscriptions on buildings serve as poignant reminders of the Jewish heritage that once flourished here.
Iglesia-Convento de Santa Teresa – Photo by Zarateman on Wikimedia Commons
St. Teresa Convent
While primarily associated with the legacy of St. Teresa of Avila, this convent also holds significance for the Jewish community. During the Spanish Inquisition, the convent’s grounds were used to imprison and interrogate Jews accused of heresy. Today, it stands as a symbol of the turbulent history faced by Avila’s Jewish population.
The Four Pillars – Photo by alexandra_camarena on Flickr
The Four Pillars
The Four Pillars are an iconic monument in Avila, representing the city’s medieval past. These stone pillars are believed to have marked the boundaries of the Jewish Quarter. They serve as a reminder of the once-thriving Jewish community and its historical importance in shaping Avila’s identity.
Iglesia de San Pedro, Ávila – Photo by Américo Toledano on Wikimedia Commons
San Pedro Church
San Pedro Church, a Romanesque gem in Avila, has a unique connection to the city’s Jewish history. It is said that the church was built on the site of a former synagogue, symbolizing the transformation of the Jewish Quarter following the expulsion of Jews. Today, it stands as a testament to the complex interplay of religious and cultural influences in Avila’s history.
Medieval Fair of Ávila
One of the most anticipated events in Avila is the Medieval Fair, held annually in September. This fair transports visitors back in time to the medieval period, recreating the atmosphere of the city’s golden age. The fair celebrates Avila’s rich history, including its Jewish heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, crafts, and delicious foods while learning about the contributions of the Jewish community to the city’s cultural tapestry.
Famous Jewish Figures
Moses de Leon – Photo by Sonsaz on Wikipedia
Moshe de León
Moshe de León, a prominent Jewish scholar and mystic, is renowned for his authorship of the Zohar, one of the most important works of Kabbalah. Born in León in the 13th century, Moshe de León spent a significant part of his life in Avila, where he composed and disseminated his mystical teachings. His connection to Avila is commemorated through various monuments and plaques, making him an enduring figure in the city’s Jewish history. He passed away in 1305 and was buried in the Jewish cemetery in Avila.
Jacob ben Asher – Photo by Unkown on Olive Seedlings
Jacob ben Asher
Jacob ben Asher, also known as Baal HaTurim, was a prominent Jewish legal scholar born in Cologne, Germany. He later moved to Spain and spent part of his life in Avila, where he wrote his magnum opus, the Arba’ah Turim, a comprehensive code of Jewish law. His scholarly contributions have left an indelible mark on Jewish legal tradition. Jacob ben Asher passed away in 1340 and was buried in Toledo, but his connection to Avila remains a significant part of the city’s Jewish heritage.
Conclusion
The Jewish story of Avila is a testament to the resilience and enduring legacy of the Jewish community. From its early days as a thriving center of commerce and scholarship to the challenges faced during the Spanish Inquisition, the Jewish community has left an indelible mark on the city’s history. Today, efforts to preserve and celebrate this heritage ensure that the story of Jewish Avila continues to inspire and educate future generations.
Explore Avila’s Jewish heritage for yourself and gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry that has shaped this remarkable city. Join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of the Jewish community in Avila.
We start at the Shaarey Tikvah Synagogue – 1st
synagogue built after the Inquisition (1536-1821) in
Portugal by Moroccan & Gibraltar Jews who arrived
in the late 1700’s, some of them descendants of the
Portuguese & Spanish Jews who left the Iberian
Peninsula after the Edicts of Expulsion (1496 and
1492, respectively).
Walk through Bairro Alto Quarter till we get to a
viewpoint for an extraordinary view over the Castle
of Lisbon & the city centre. Today this
neighbourhood is the heart of the night life with a
high concentration of restaurants & bars. It started to be built in the early 1500’s by a great
part of Conversos who stayed in Portugal and continued their businesses with the trade.
Continue to Baixa (Downtown) where we will reach
the location of the Inquisition Court & Prison (today
the National Theatre Queen Maria II). Around the
corner, we will see the Memorial to the Victims of
the Massacre in 1506.
Walk through the former Main Jewish Quarter on the
way to the Alfama Quarter (old city) to see the
name of a street (Rua da Judiaria) where another
Jewish Quarter was located.
We will continue to the Commerce Square, where most of the Autos-de-Fé took place in
Lisbon. We end at the City Hall Square to finish our walk through the 3 co-existing Guettos
during the Medieval time up to the Edict of Expulsion, where a small Jewish Quarter was
located (Judiaria Pequena).
The Days of Jewish Culture in Berlin is a vibrant celebration of Jewish heritage, art, and history. First organized in the early 1980s, the event commemorates the rich tapestry of Jewish life and culture that has flourished in Berlin for centuries. Held in various locations across the city, including synagogues, cultural centers, and public spaces, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse facets of Jewish life. Through lectures, art exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories, traditions, and contributions of the Jewish community, both past and present.
Participants of all ages and backgrounds come together to enjoy traditional Jewish foods, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and partake in customs that have been passed down through generations. Special events such as guided tours of historic Jewish sites and interactive workshops provide deeper insights into the community’s enduring legacy. The festival not only celebrates Jewish culture but also fosters a sense of unity and understanding among attendees. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious traveler, the Days of Jewish Culture in Berlin invites you to join in this enriching and educational experience, celebrating the resilience and vibrancy of Jewish life.
Image attribution:
All from: <https://www.juedische-kulturtage.org/>
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🌍 Celebrating One Year of the Jewish Silk Road Portal
World Jewish Travel was thrilled at #IMTM 2024 to present a copy of the WJT Jewish Silk Road Pressbook to the CEO of the Azerbaijan National Tourism Board Florian Sengstschmid and Jamilya Talibzade its Israeli representative Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB).
The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India.
See the overwhelming reaction from the press, by downloading our free pressbook. Special thanks to Moshe Gilad of the @haaretzcom for highlighting this forgotten but important story in the Galeria section of the newspaper and available to download on WJT.
👉Link to WJT Jewsih Silk Rad Pressbook and more is in our bio
🌍 Celebrating One Year of the Jewish Silk Road Portal
World Jewish Travel was thrilled at #IMTM 2024 to present a copy of the WJT Jewish Silk Road Pressbook to the CEO of the Azerbaijan National Tourism Board Florian Sengstschmid and Jamilya Talibzade its Israeli representative Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB).
The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India.
See the overwhelming reaction from the press, by downloading our free pressbook. Special thanks to Moshe Gilad of the @haaretzcom for highlighting this forgotten but important story in the Galeria section of the newspaper and available to download on WJT.
👉Link to WJT Jewsih Silk Rad Pressbook and more is in our bio...
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Step into the soul-stirring Pesach traditions of Jerusalem virtually. Experience the resonating echoes of Birkat Kohanim🌿
