About this talk

This presentation explores the Jewish community in Croatia, tracing its origins back to Roman times around the 1st century CE. The 16th century saw the arrival of Sephardic Jews fleeing the Iberian Peninsula, while the Austrian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries welcomed a significant Ashkenazi Jewish community from Central and Eastern Europe.

Jewish communities flourished in cities such as Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb. Dubrovnik hosts the oldest Sephardic synagogue still in use today, dating back to the 14th century. Similarly, Split's synagogue, located within the historic Diocletian's Palace, ranks among the oldest Sephardic synagogues in Europe.

The community faced immense challenges during World War II, with many being persecuted and deported to concentration camps. Notably, the Zagreb Jewish Community Center remained operational during the Holocaust, providing vital support.

Today, the Jewish community in Croatia is small yet active, with the Hugo Kon School in Zagreb as the only Jewish day school in the former Yugoslavia. Through cultural events and educational programs, they actively preserve their heritage, ensuring the rich legacy of Croatian Jews endures.

About Ante

With family roots in Sarajevo's Jewish community, Ante's Jewish identity was deeply influenced by his early involvement in Sunday school, the Youth Club, and participating in seminars such as Bejahad, Gesher, SummerU, and Limmud. His recent work with JCC Global and Haver Serbia has further strengthened his connections across regional Jewish communities, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.