Jews in the Commonwealth of Nations: Malta, Kenya, Singapore and more

Clive Lawton - This presentation will explore the contemporary relevance of the Commonwealth of Nations, the world's second-largest international organization, and its diverse Jewish communities. It includes both established Jewish populations in countries like Canada and the UK, as well as smaller, lesser-known communities in places like Sri Lanka and Lesotho. First, we will examine the strengths, challenges, and characteristics of approximately 40 Jewish communities across Oceania, the Americas, Europe, and Africa. Then, we will focus on specific examples from regions such as Malta, Kenya, Singapore and the Channel Isles (Jersey and Guernsey) reflecting on how the Commonwealth shapes and sustains these varied Jewish identities. Read more and sign up

Along the Silk Roads to Jerusalem: A Voyage into Bukharian Jewish History and Culture

Ruben Shimonov - Embark with us on an exploration of the eclectic and multilayered history of the ancient Jewish community of Central Asia, the Bukharian Jews. Join us as we discover how Bukharian Jews have developed their rich culture against the backdrop of changing societies—including Iranian, Arab, Turkic, and Russian empires. Through archival documents, music, heritage site photographs, and personal stories, our Uzbekistan-born educator, Ruben Shimonov, will guide us on a journey through Central Asia, the Middle East, and the United States. Read more and sign up

The Jews of Yemen and a Journey on the Magic Carpet

Gavriella Bigio Dahan - The Jewish community of Yemen has existed since antiquity, but today comprises just a handful of affiliated members. The past century saw the largest waves of immigration to Israel, in which my grandmother took part. Through conversations with her, I learned both about her personal ordeal as a child thrust into the unknown and about the changing way of life for Yemenite Jews in Israel. The Yemenite Jews and their descendants have made their mark on Israeli society and have made significant contributions to religious study, music, crafts, and, of course, food. Read more and sign up

Czeching In: The Rich History and Vibrant Present of Prague's Jewish Community

Emma Günsberger -  Join us on a captivating journey through time as we uncover the remarkable history of Jews in Czechia and delve deep into the heart of Prague to discover its vibrant Jewish heritage. Explore Prague's Jewish Quarter and learn about its history and contemporary life on a virtual guided tour. Learn about the current community, their cultural events, initiatives, and the challenges they are facing today, which shape the lives of Czech Jews. Read more and sign up

The Jews of Georgia: A Diverse and Ancient Community in the Caucasus

Get to Know: The Izmir Jewish Cultural Heritage Project

Nesim Bencoya - The Jewish community in Izmir dates back to ancient times, but the mass Sephardi migration from Spain in the late 15th century strengthened its presence. Settling in Izmir's port area in the 16th century, Jews formed a thriving community, influencing religion and culture in the 17th and 18th centuries. They contributed significantly to Izmir's development, leaving behind cultural heritage, some of which still exist today. The Izmir Jewish Cultural Heritage Project, initiated in 2010, aims to preserve this legacy. This meeting will discuss the project's goals and achievements in safeguarding Izmir's Jewish heritage. Read more and sign up for free

The Cultural Wealth of Izmir: A Journey Through Its Jewish Legacy

Tilda Koenka - Izmir, formerly known as Smyrna, is a coastal city with a history spanning 8,500 years. Jewish life in the city dates back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, with Sephardic traditions playing a prominent role. Discover Izmir's Jewish heritage through a virtual tour of its historical synagogues, which represent the most visible part of its Jewish legacy. Learn about key figures from the past, as well as local Jewish cultural elements such as architecture, music, food, and language, and explore how they have integrated into the city's rich cultural fabric. Read more and sign up 

Stories from Curaçao's Jewish History

Ronald Gomes Casseres - The island of Curaçao is considered the cradle of Judaism in the Americas. The almost 400 years of a Jewish presence here are exemplified by Mikvé Israel-Emanuel, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the continent. The founders of this congregation were Jews from the Amsterdam Portuguese community, whose success allowed them to help start other communities in the Caribbean and provide support to congregations in New York and Rhode Island. The history of Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel will be told through stories of events that have formed it, and the broader Jewish community as they are today. Read more and sign up

Exploring Jewish Heritage and History in the Czech Lands

Emma Günsberger - Jewish communities have shaped Czech lands for over a millennium, with early settlements appearing in the 10th century. Despite periods of persecution, they significantly contributed to commerce, arts, and sciences. Emperor Joseph II's 18th-century reforms fostered integration, and the 19th century witnessed a Jewish cultural renaissance. The Holocaust, however, led to the murder of over 85% of Czech Jews, and Communist rule brought further hardships. Yet, survivors revived Jewish life, preserving a rich heritage. Join Emma on a 90-minute virtual journey through Brno, Mikulov, Třebíč, Pilsen, and Kroměříž to explore synagogues, cemeteries, and stories of Jewish resilience. Read more and sign up.

Get to know: "The Together Plan" Archive Service in Belarus - a trip to your roots

Carl Kaplan and Vasily Zaitsau from The Together Plan, a charity supporting community empowerment in Belarus - Usually people have knowledge of only 2-3 generations and these stories are told to their children. It is so exciting to know how your great-great-grandfather was named, but are you ready to find out that in fact he was married twice, and was also prosecuted? Or to find out that the real names of your great-grandmothers were nothing like the ones you knew? Our service helps clients not only to find the names of their ancestors but also how they lived in the old days. During the presentation of this project, Vasily and Sonya will show how this all comes TOGETHER. Read more and sign up for free

Moroccan Judaism: History and Culture

Dr. Vanessa Elbaz - Morocco is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in the Diaspora, with a heritage spanning over 2,000 years. This rich history reflects an intersection of various civilizations and traditions, including Berber, Andalusian, and Arab influences. In this talk, we will explore the historical and contemporary context of Moroccan Judaism, tracing the migrations of Jewish communities to and from Morocco and their integration into the fabric of the country. We will discuss regional, linguistic, and cultural differences, as well as the unique characteristics of certain local traditions. Read more and sign up.

The Musical Traditions of Moroccan Jews

Dr. Vanessa Elbaz - Throughout the centuries, Moroccan Jews preserved and blended religious and secular musical traditions, improvising upon them and popularizing them. By frequently collaborating with Muslim musicians, they helped develop a musical style that was authentically Moroccan. This talk will explore the diverse musical traditions within Moroccan Jewish practice. The music of both men and women, including sacred, liturgical, and humorous traditions, forms part of a larger sonic world that has helped Moroccan Jews integrate different aspects of their identities. Read more and sign up.

The Jewish Journey Through Scotland

Michael Tobias - This talk explores the history of Scottish Jewry, starting with the first Jewish visitors in the late 17th century and the formation of early congregations in the 1800s. Over time, communities grew, influenced by waves of immigrants, particularly from Poland and Lithuania. At its height in the 1950s and 1960s, Scotland's Jewish population was at its peak, but in the decades since it has gradually declined. This talk will cover the communities in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and smaller towns, highlighting notable individuals, including one well-known figure whose story ended tragically. Join us for a compelling exploration of migration and the enduring legacy of Scotland's Jewish community. Read more and sign up.

The Jews of Ukraine: A Virtual Tour of Kyiv and Odesa

Qesher Book Club: "Sacred Places Tell Tales: Jewish Life and Heritage in Modern Cairo"

Jewish Barcelona: now you see it, now you don't

Dominique Tomasov Blinder- Jewish presence in Barcelona can be traced back to between the mid-9th and the end of the 14th century. What are the hints to this Jewish past? Are there any artifacts from those days? Where are they kept? How do we connect with our history? Which are our places of memory today? The early 20th century marks the beginning of a second chapter of Jewish life in the city. We will learn about the irregular evolution of this community, the second largest in Spain. And we will discover how Jews contributed to some of the "most Spanish" creations. Read more and sign up.

Jewish Amsterdam: A Small Community with a Giant History

Nachshon Rodrigues Pereira - Nachshon, one of the few remaining descendants of the original Portuguese Jews of Amsterdam, will describe what Jewish Amsterdam was like in the 17th century when the city was the center of the Jewish world: offering the best Jewish education, housing the biggest Rabbis and being home to the largest synagogue in the world. Find out how this community was shaped and how it shaped its environment; how much was lost during World War II and what is left now. A compelling journey embellished with music, visuals, and anecdotes. Read more and sign up here.

Jewish Germany Part 1: Berlin Jewish Heritage Through the Ages

Olga Bokhonovskaya - This Jewish Berlin tour explores the fascinating history of Berlin's Jewish community from the early settlers to the modern times. You'll visit the oldest Jewish cemetery, see the imposing New Berlin Synagogue, and hear about the Jewish merchants, financiers, and intellectuals who played important roles in the economic and social life of the German capital. On a visit to the "Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe" and the "Trains to Life - Trains to Death" Monument, you'll uncover the darkest period of the history of Berlin Jews. Finally, you'll learn about the Jews of the GDR and how the Jewish communities were rebuilt on both sides of the Berlin Wall. Read more and sign up here.

The Jews of the Greek Islands: Crete, Rhodes and Corfu

Joseph Michael Vardakis -  Since ancient times, many of the thousands of sunny and breathtaking islands dotting the eastern Mediterranean Sea have served as a home for Diaspora Jews. In this lecture, we will explore the fascinating and lesser-known history and traditions of three of the most famous such islands situated in modern-day Greece: Crete, the largest Greek island with its ancient Romaniote Jewish community; Rhodes, a Sephardic microcosm in the Aegean Sea; and Corfu, with its prolific Italian Jewish community in the Ionian Sea. These historic and diverse communities enrich our understanding of the Jewish Diaspora and its remarkable saga of survival. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Windows to the Past: Discovering the Shtetls of Lithuania

Daniel Gurevich - The journey from Vilnius to Biržai traverses a route rich in Jewish history, passing through former shtetls like Ukmerge, Alanta, Panevezys, Kupiskis, Rokiskis, and Biržai. These small towns once flourished as vibrant centers of trade, scholarship, and community life. We'll look at what made these shtetls unique: their marketplaces, synagogues, scholars, and artisans. We'll also reflect on how these communities navigated the challenges and changes of their time. These stories aren't just fragments of the past—they're a vital part of the Jewish history and of our collective memory. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

A 'Walk' Through the Jewish History of Florence

Giovanna Bossi Rosenfeld - You are invited to a virtual 'walk' through the most significant places in the city where, from the Renaissance to our times, Jews in Florence have lived, worked, and shared community and religious life. This path, enriched with history, curiosity, and memories, aims to bring to life the lesser-known places of Jewish presence in the city. The tour ends at the Great Synagogue (1882), one of the symbols of the emancipation of Italian Jews. Damaged by the Nazi-Fascists during WWII, it is still active and remains a vibrant focal point of contemporary Jewish life in Florence. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

The Jewish Experience in Uruguay

Shai Abend - We will embark on a fascinating journey back in time to explore the origins of Jewish immigration to Uruguay. We'll step into the shoes of those who chose this country as their destination, imagining the unique reality they encountered. Discover the process that led to the formation of the organized Jewish community. Witness how Uruguay shaped a vibrant, diverse, and ideologically active community. Learn about the life stories of prominent Jewish figures who lived in the country and explore intriguing connections between Jewish and Uruguayan culture. Finally, engage in a dialogue about the current state of Jewish life in Uruguay, reflecting on its key issues and future challenges. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Jewish Artists Who Shook the World

Evgenia Kempinski - Welcome to a journey into the world of Jewish artists who transformed European art forever! Imagine a group of young men, often from small towns in Eastern Europe, arriving in the city with big dreams and little else. Paris was their Promised Land—a place where they could finally make their mark on the world. Despite facing poverty and cultural challenges, they shared one thing: a burning passion for art. We'll explore the lives of icons like Marc Chagall, Amedeo Modigliani, Chaïm Soutine, and Moïse Kisling. Whether you've admired their work for years or are just discovering it, I'm excited to guide you through this remarkable chapter of modern art history. Join me for a journey into the heart of an artistic revolution! Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

The Moroccan Jews of Cabo Verde: The Preservation of a Unique Heritage

Carol Castiel - The story of the Jews of Cabo Verde is a continuation of the larger Sephardic/Moroccan Jewish Diaspora. A former Portuguese colony, the Republic of Cabo Verde lies in the Atlantic Ocean about 300 miles off the coast of West Africa. After Portugal abolished the Inquisition, Moroccan Jews started immigrating in the mid-1800s. Carol Castiel, founder of the "Cape Verde Jewish Heritage Project", will explore the historical, economic, and political reasons for this migration, discuss why the practice of Judaism was not sustained in the long run, and address the efforts taken to restore and preserve Cabo Verde's several Sephardic cemeteries. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

The Jews of Kurdistan: A Land of Jewish Heritage, and Potential Reconciliation

Levi Meir Clancy - Jews from Kurdistan have a documented history going all the way back to the Bible, and there are tens of thousands of Jews whose ancestors immigrated from Kurdistan to the present-day State of Israel. We will learn about the unique Jewish history of Kurdistan, including famous heritage sites and major historical figures. We will also explore Jewish and Muslim relations through the context of the overall Kurdish Muslim society. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Jews of Argentina: "They sowed seeds and harvested doctors"

Claudia Hercman - We invite you to a virtual tour of Jewish Argentina, the 6th largest Jewish Community in the world. Argentina has always been a refuge for those who fled from the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal, the pogroms in Russia, and the Holocaust in Europe. We will learn about the first Jewish immigrants, who settled in the rural areas and gradually moved to the cities. In the 60s there were half a million Jews in Argentina, now there are only 220,000. What happened to those who left and those who remained? Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Jews of Denmark: A Virtual Tour of Jewish Copenhagen

Charlotte Thalmay -This conversation explores the history of Jewish Copenhagen: the triumphs, sorrows, and legacies of those who have long called Denmark home. We'll explore important locations throughout the city, such as the Great Synagogue. We'll discuss World War II and understand how 95% of the Jewish community was saved from Nazi persecution during the Holocaust. We'll learn about Jewish life in Copenhagen today, the ongoing challenges posed by antisemitism, and the 2015 terror attack on a synagogue. 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. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Recovering the Lost World of Iraqi Babylonian Jews

Sarah Sassoon - Come walk with me through the history of Iraqi Jews, from the River of Babylon to the streets of Baghdad. Together, we will discover the rich culture, Judeo-Arabic language, traditional foods, and everyday life of this ancient Babylonian Jewish community. I will share family stories that trace journeys from Baghdad to Al Uzair—home to the tomb of Ezra the Scribe—to Kirkuk and Hila. We will explore how deeply integrated Iraqi Jews were in Arab society and uncover the reasons behind their departure. Today, only three Jews remain in Iraq. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date

Travel to Spain: Sephardic Jewish Heritage Tour

Moisés Hassán - The Jewish History of Spain is one of the most glorious and tragic passages in the history of Jewish People. In the first forty-five minutes of this talk, we'll explore together those thrilling events and times: from the very beginning of Jewish presence and life in the Iberian Peninsula, through its Golden Age, until its tragic interruption and its recent revival. After this, we invite you to stay for the second part of the presentation, where we will focus on our "Sephardic Jewish Heritage Tour to Spain" in October 2025 Watch the recording here

Moscow from a Jewish Perspective

Evgenia Kempinski - Moscow, the capital of modern Russia, is home to the largest Jewish community in the country, still numbering some 100,000 people. Despite recent political challenges, Jewish life here flourishes. However, this was not always the case in the past. Our talk will cover approximately 140-150 years, from the time when Jews were first allowed to settle in Moscow to the present day. We will pay a visit to the city's Jewish highlights, including old and new synagogues, the Community Center, the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center, the Holocaust Memorial Synagogue, and more. Finally, we will discuss the changes in the atmosphere and Jewish community life in Moscow since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

From the Inquisition to the Caribbean: The Jews of Jamaica

Rivka Campbell - The history of Jews in Jamaica is rich and extensive. The first wave of arrivals escaped the Inquisition. Among the latest immigrants were European refugees who ran away from Nazism. Today the Jewish community is very connected with the local Jamaican population. Only one active synagogue remains, the sand-floored Shaare Shalom, which hosts the United Congregation of Israelites in Kingston. Though the community today is only a fraction of its former size, its impact on Jamaica endures. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Beauty and Magic of Yiddish

Lasha Shakulashvili - Nothing symbolizes the history and storytelling of Ashkenazi Jews better than Yiddish. The language has played a significant role in Europe's linguistic and cultural diversity, and its beauty shines through its many phrases and sayings. Join us on a journey to Berlin, Odessa, and Tbilisi to explore how waves of Jewish migration spread Yiddish across Europe and the Caucasus, creating a unique linguistic mosaic. Discover some of the most touching and amusing Yiddish expressions, and see how Yiddish can help you better understand Jewish wisdom and mysticism. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Jews of South Africa: Before, During, After

Gavin Morris - The story of the Jews in South Africa officially began in 1841, when a congregation of 17 British Jews, known as the Gardens Shul, was founded in Cape Town. From that point, it was the mass arrival of Lithuanian Jewish immigrants during the years of the "Gold Rush" which defined the character of South African Jewry. This presentation will explore the community's Litvak roots, its impact on South African commerce and politics, and its current trends of urbanization and migration. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Jews of Afghanistan: A glimpse into a vanished community

Sara Koplik and Osnat Gad - The Jewish community of Afghanistan developed and flourished along the Silk Road.  By the 19th century, families survived through commerce, with men frequently traveling long distances to sell their wares. Learn more about the daily life of this community, and how they survived the threat of forcible conversion and discriminatory economic policies while maintaining ancient, unique customs. We will also discuss the community's fate and decline in the 20th century, and what remains of it today. Osnat Gad, born in Pakistan to Afghani Jewish parents, will also share about her efforts to restore Jewish sites in Kabul and Herat. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

A Look at Jewish Colombia: Its Community, History, and Challenges

Vivianne Tesone Milhem - Learn about the Jewish presence in Colombia, its historical roots, how the communities were established, the challenges faced during the country's armed conflict, and how Jewish identity has been shaped by these factors. My name is Vivianne, and I am a third-generation Jew living in Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia. I will share my family's history as a springboard to introduce you to our community and country, enriched by fascinating historical anecdotes. I will also discuss the recent resurgence of people rediscovering their lost Jewish roots. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

A Journey Through the Jewish Heritage of Hungary

Dóra Koranyi and Dóra Pataricza -Join us for a virtual journey through today's Hungary and discover the rich Jewish heritage still present in many villages and cities. By visiting synagogues, cemeteries, and museums, we will discover the very early remains, from the Roman period to the Middle Ages. We will find traces from the Ottoman Empire and witness the growth of the Ashkenazi community under the Austrian Empire. In this unique journey, we will explore what survived outside of Budapest following the Holocaust and the fall of Communism. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

St. Petersburg from the Jewish Perspective: Life, History, Art

Evgenia Kempinski - St. Petersburg, the capital of the Russian Empire for 200 years, is known for its unique beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's my privilege to share the charm of my city and much more. We will look at St. Petersburg through a Jewish lens. We will learn about the 'maskilim,' who led the community in the 19th century, explore the role of Jews in the Russian Revolution, discuss the experiences of Soviet Jews, and witness the miraculous rebirth of Jewish life after the fall of the USSR. I will also share with you my own family's story to illustrate the history and present-day life of our Jewish community. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Jews of Belarus: From the Pale of Settlement to the USSR and Beyond

Debra Brunner and Artur Livshyts - Belarus's Jewish story is rich, vital, traumatic, fascinating, and barely spoken of. The territory was ruled at different times by Lithuania, Poland, and Russia. It was invaded by the Nazis during World War II and remained under Soviet rule until 1991. This talk will provide a snapshot of the history of the Jewish people of Belarus, the legacy of the Belarusian Jewish community today, and insight into the development of the Jewish Cultural Heritage Trail by The Together Plan Charity. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Inside the Jewish Quarter of Budapest: Hidden Synagogues, Hidden Stories

Anikó Félix - Budapest, the capital of Hungary, has one of the most fascinating Jewish culture and history in Europe. It is a community that still flourishes in spite of the many difficulties it has faced throughout its long history. I would like to invite you to a virtual tour, where I will share with you stories about this community, from the time of the Austrian Empire, through the Holocaust, the communist era, and into the present day Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Gleams and Shadows of Jewish Life in France

Emmanuelle Stein - France currently has the largest Jewish population in Europe. The history of French Jews alternated between periods of tolerance and prosperity and the ordeals of insecurity and anti-Semitism, with both phenomena sometimes coexisting. Paris-born Emmanuelle Stein will provide an overview of the Jewish presence in France from the Middle Ages to the present day, while describing what pluralistic Judaism looks like today through the eyes of a young Jewish woman and human rights activist. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Get to know the Haver Foundation of Hungary –Fighting Antisemitism by Building Connections

Anikó Félix - Did you know that the word haver means "friend" in both Hebrew and Hungarian? In this talk, we'll explore how Haver Foundation fosters understanding and mutual acceptance between Jewish and non-Jewish students in Hungary. Haver equips young Jewish volunteers to engage with students in schools, through innovative, non-formal educational programs. These encounters foster meaningful connections that cultivate empathy and dismantle prejudice. Click here to watch the recording

Bible to the Golden Age and the Abraham Accords

Louise Arwas and Alec Nacamuli - The Jewish Community in Egypt is as old as the Jewish tradition itself. We will follow the Jewish presence from the time of the Bible until its Golden Age, from around 1870 until the Suez Crisis in 1956. We will see how the tides changed for the community with the growth of Egyptian nationalism and the establishment of modern Israel. We will end by taking a look at the reality today, at the Jews, the synagogues and cemeteries that remain, and what efforts are being made to preserve this important part of Jewish and Egyptian history. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Jews of Syria: Legacy and Lost Crowns

Gavriella Bigio Dahan - The Jews of Aleppo and Damascus preserved a rich heritage deeply rooted in ancient traditions, such as unique liturgical melodies, religious works, and Mizrahi-Sephardic customs. Often feeling like an extended part of the Land of Israel, Syrian Jews provided a steady base for Torah scholars and frequently visited or settled near holy biblical sites. As they resettled in new communities worldwide, from the Americas to the State of Israel, they not only rebuilt their lives but also revitalized their heritage, ensuring its survival and influence far beyond Syria. My grandparents' stories in the Syrian diaspora are but one of many that we'll discover. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Colonial Roots and Vibrant Present: The Jewish Heritage of Brazil

Felipe Lichand - In Brazil we can find one of the largest Jewish communities in Latin America, with a presence in different regions, each with distinct stories. In this talk, we will introduce you to the Jewish history of Brazil from colonial times to the present. Travel with us to Rio, São Paulo, and Recife, and explore the most emblematic Jewish landmarks of these cities through images and videos. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Kavkazi "Mountain Jews": Ancient Hebrew and Persian roots at the border of Azerbaijan and Russia

Valeriya Nakshun - The Jewish community of the Caucasus lived for centuries in the mountainous region between the Black and Caspian Seas. Their history is believed to date back to ancient times, with some Jews finding refuge during the Persian Empire's rule. The region remained under Persian influence for centuries, though this influence waned as the area experienced various shifts in control. In 1813 much of this territory was ceded to Tsarist Russia. Later, it became part of the Soviet Union after the Russian Empire's fall. This talk will provide an overview of the origins and history of the Kavkazi Jewish community, along with efforts by the diaspora to preserve their heritage today.  Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

A History of Jewish Vienna:

from Earliest Times to Today

Michael Simonson and introduction by Julie Metz - Vienna evokes images of café culture, waltzes, and writers like Stefan Zweig. It also brings to mind the tragic fate of the Jewish population of the city in the Shoah. But there is so much more to the history of Jews in Vienna. From its Roman origins to the medieval era of persecution and intermittent stability, Jewish contributions shaped the city. The Enlightenment era saw increased Jewish influence, and the 19th and 20th centuries brought a wave of immigrants seeking refuge and opportunity who formed a thriving middle class integral to Vienna's political and cultural fabric. Though nearly obliterated in the Holocaust, the Jewish community has revived in modern times, creating a smaller yet vibrant presence. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Jewish Estonia: A Century and a Half of Upheaval and Resurgence

Daniel Gurevich - This tour will take us through the 150 years of Jewish life in Estonia, the smallest of the Baltic countries. Estonia is known for its environmental beauty, and its capital Tallinn is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. We will learn about the Jewish community's commercial success in the late 19th century, and speak about the "Jewish Cultural Autonomy" in the short-lived Republic of Estonia of the 1920s - 1930s. We will discuss the Holocaust and the Communist repression that followed. As we explore these histories, you'll find common threads that highlight the strength of community, the value of cultural continuity, and the triumph of resilience over adversity. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Jewish Salonica, the Sephardi Metropolis

Joseph Vardakis - Salonica (modern-day Thessaloniki in Greece) became a vital center of Sephardi Jewish life after Jews expelled from Spain and elsewhere settled there under the Ottoman Empire. Known as "Mother of Israel" and the "Jerusalem of the Balkans," it was Europe's largest Sephardi city for over 400 years, providing refuge and fostering a unique cultural heritage. 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. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

The Music and Poetry of the Jews of Iran

Alan Niku - Jews and Persians: two cultures known for their music and poetry. From hazzanut and klezmer to dastgah and motrebi, and from Psalms and piyyutim to ghazals and robaiyat, these two peoples have been linked through their common love for poetry, and for the musical expression of that poetry. So what about the Jews of Iran? Was their music similar to other Jewish communities? Was it more Iranian or Jewish? Did they participate in greater society, or were they isolated from the music and poetry around them? And what can we learn about the Jews of Iran through their music? We will explore these questions and more in this class about the music and poetry of the Jews of Iran. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.

Jews in the Commonwealth of Nations: Cyprus, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and more

Clive Lawton - This presentation will explore the contemporary relevance of the Commonwealth of Nations, the world's second-largest international organization, and its diverse Jewish communities. It includes both established Jewish populations in countries like Canada and the UK, as well as smaller, lesser-known communities in places like Sri Lanka and Lesotho. First, we will examine the strengths, challenges, and characteristics of approximately 40 Jewish communities across Oceania, the Americas, Europe, and Africa. Then, we will focus on specific examples from regions such as Cyprus, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and the Cayman Islands, reflecting on how the Commonwealth shapes and sustains these varied Jewish identities. Sign up here to be notified when we schedule a new date.