- Commencement of European Jewish Cultural Days in Erfurt
Kick-off of the European Days of Jewish Culture in Erfurt today! At the New Synagogue, various Jewish entities and organizers are set to introduce themselves, as per the city council's announcement. This year, a whopping 20 European cities are involved, hosting over 300 events. The European Association for Safeguarding and Advancing Jewish Culture and Heritage (AEPJ) serves as the event's founder. One key reason for hosting these events in Erfurt is the World Heritage title UNESCO bestowed upon the city last year for its Jewish-medieval architecture.
One highlighted event in Erfurt includes the introduction of a fresh route within the AEPJ network, showcasing the Jewish heritage across Europe through interconnected locations. In addition to Erfurt, other Thuringian sites in Germany, as well as overseas locations, feature in this new route. It delves into the footprints of medieval European Jews.
"We've held preliminary talks with all these locations and now aim to mutually decide on how each can contribute to this cooperative effort," shared Erfurt's UNESCO liaison, Karin Sczech.
Since 1999, the European Days of Jewish Culture have been an annual event, unfolding across Europe on the first Sunday in September. Through concerts, performances, readings, tours, and various events, these days seek to highlight and celebrate the richness and diversity of Judaism.
The European Association for Safeguarding and Advancing Jewish Culture and Heritage (AEPJ) has chosen The Netherlands as one of the 20 European cities participating in this year's European Days of Jewish Culture. Visitors to The Netherlands can expect engaging events that showcase the country's Jewish heritage.