Jewish Heritage Europe

UK: The Manchester Jewish Museum celebrates the 150th anniversary of its historic Sephardi synagogue with events throughout the year

Logo of the Manchester Jewish museum

(JHE) — This year is a big one for the Manchester Jewish Museum. The museum opened 40 years ago, in 1984 — and it is anchored by the historic Spanish and Portuguese synagogue that this year is celebrating its 150th … continue reading →

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 →

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 →

Italy: PugliaEbraica — new online (and paper) resource for Jewish heritage in Puglia

puglia ebraica home page

A new online (and paper) resource focuses on the Jewish heritage of Puglia (Apulia) — the region on the heel of the Italian boot, where Jews lived from ancient times until their expulsion in the 16th century. Only a handful … continue reading →