About this talk

This conversation explores the history of Jewish Copenhagen: the triumphs, sorrows, and legacies of those who have long called Denmark home. We will discuss the arrival of the first Jews in Denmark in 1622 by invitation of King Christian IV. We'll explore the early years of Jews in Copenhagen and learn about important locations throughout the city, such as the Great Synagogue. We'll then discuss World War II, focusing on the rescue of Danish Jews by brave fishermen who helped smuggle more than 95% of the Jewish population to safety in Sweden. Approximately 7,000 Danish Jews were part of this miraculous rescue in 1943.

Our conversation will also discuss Jewish life in Copenhagen today, the ongoing challenges of antisemitism, and the 2015 terror attack on a synagogue. We will examine the lasting influence of key historical figures on the Jewish community of Copenhagen. This presentation will deepen participants' understanding of Jewish Copenhagen—its history, struggles, and what it means to have been and to be Jewish in Denmark.

About Charlotte

Charlotte Thalmay is the founder and CEO of the tour company "Jewish Copenhagen", which is the largest company in Scandinavia promoting Jewish heritage tours.

In her tours, Charlotte shares the dramatic and inspiring journey of the Danish Jews focusing on her own family stories of survival, prosperity, and catastrophes.

She has a Bachelor degree in tourism from Roskilde University and is vice president of the Zionist Federation in Denmark.