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Jewish Salonica, the Sephardi Metropolis
Sunday, December 29
USA 12:00 pm PT / 3:00 pm ET
UK 8:00 pm / France 9:00 pm / Israel 10:00 pm
The talk will last approximately 90 minutes
About this talk
As Sephardi Jews settled in the Ottoman Empire, Salonica (Thessaloniki, now Greece's second-largest city)—grew into a vital center of Jewish life and culture, earning titles such as "Madre de Israel" ("Mother of Israel") and the "Jerusalem of the Balkans." For over 400 years, it was the largest Sephardi city in the world and the heart of Sephardi Jewry in Europe, offering refuge to persecuted Jews from across Europe and the Mediterranean.
This vibrant city became one of the great centers of the Diaspora, developing a unique cultural heritage that remains significant today. We will trace the history of this remarkable Jewish community from its origins to the present, exploring the rich traditions and distinctive qualities that made Salonica an indispensable chapter in the story of the Jewish people.
About Joseph
Joseph Michael Vardakis was born in Athens, Greece. He has a B.A in Psychology, an M.A in Psychobiology and is currently completing his M.Sc in Clinical Psychology. He has lived and studied in the UK, South Africa and Israel and is currently residing in Athens. He has been a student counsellor for the Ministry of Absorption for new immigrants to Israel and has also worked in an educational framework for the Jewish community in South Africa before his studies. On his spare time, he offers themed tours in Athens, including sites of Jewish interest.
You will be asked to select one of these options:
General admission - $18
Supported admission - $9
Sponsor this talk - $36
With your contribution, you will also be donating to the American Sephardi Federation, which preserves and promotes the history, traditions, and rich mosaic culture of Greater Sephardic communities as an integral part of the Jewish experience.
