Jewish Heritage Europe

Trees and Fruit for Tu B’Shevat

Monday marks Tu B’Shevat — the 15th of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which is known as “the New Year for Trees.” It is the time of year when the earliest-blooming trees in the land of Israel start to flower.  It is the … continue reading →

Jewish gravestones as paving….in one of Prague’s toniest pedestrian promenades

A heavily-trafficked pedestrian promenade in downtown Prague is (at least partially) paved with cobblestones cut from Jewish gravestones. The cobbles were used to construct the pedestrian promenade along Na Příkopě street, at one end of Wenceslas Square. It opened in … continue reading →

CZ: Restoration of Synagogue in Čáslav may finally be completed

Synagogue in Caslav, Czech Republic

The stalled restoration of the Moorish-style synagogue in Čáslav, Czech Republic, may soon be completed. Mayor Vlastislav Malek, who took office in November, indicated this at New Year’s when he outlined  his new administration’s plans for the coming year, according … continue reading →

Happy Hanukkah from JHE!

  Jewish Heritage Europe wishes all our readers and friends a Happy Hanukkah! Thank you for your interest and support — and thanks especially to those of you who have contacted us with questions and comments, with news of publications … continue reading →

Book Review: Learning about Jewish Life (and Lives) from Jewish cemeteries. Review essay of Rudolf Klein’s new book

  Jewish cemeteries are often called Houses of the Living, and for good reason. The epitaphs and grave markers — be they simple matzevot or grand mausolea — represent, and tell the stories of, the people they memorialize. They speak … continue reading →