Jewish Heritage Europe

Poland: The restored synagogue in Chęciny reopens as a Center for Jewish Remembrance and Culture

Restored Checiny synagogue Photo: Checiny municipality

Following an extensive restoration, the former 17th century synagogue in Chęciny reopened at the end of February as  a Center for Jewish Remembrance and Culture, whose aim is to teach “tolerance and respect for other religions and cultures.” The Center … continue reading →

The JHE March Newsletter is out – Catch up on what you might have missed

Detail of an early 18th century Esther Scroll, or Megillah, in the Museum of Jewish Padova

The JHE Monthly Newsletter for March is out today. Catch up with what you might have missed over the past few weeks. News, views, and insights from Germany, Czech Republic, Belarus, the UK, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, Italy, Hungary, and more … continue reading →

Purim! This year, we focus on the beautiful way individual Esther scrolls have been written out and decorated

An early 18th century Esther Scroll, or Megillah, in the Museum of Jewish Padova

Purim begins tomorrow night… it is a festive holiday, a time of celebration, crazy costumes, and… drink. On Purim, we read the Esther scroll, or Megillah, the Book of Esther that tells how Queen Esther saved the Jews of the … continue reading →