Published on January 27, 2017 by IBMT
The history of the Jewish heritage in Europe includes the highs of success and significant contributions to culture, science, society, and the lows of some of recent history’s most horrific atrocities committed against mankind. The history of the Jewish heritage in Europe is complex, and fascinating. If you’re interested in taking a trip “back in the old country,” consider taking one of our fascinating European trips.
While it is easy to imagine the “old country” in black and white photographs, or in Fiddler on the roof, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic have shot up on top travel destinations lists in the past few years. With newly built luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and a wide variety of sightseeing excursions, Krakow is a must-see spot in Poland. Highlights of the city’s beautiful sights and rich Jewish history include the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter, the Altshul; the oldest synagogue in Poland, and the Ghetto Heroes Square, commemorating those who fought against the Nazi Occupation of their beloved city.
The next destination within Poland is Warsaw and its surrounding areas, steeped in Jewish history particularly during the time of the Holocaust, as Warsaw served as the hub in Poland, with more than 300,000 Jews. Enjoy a guided tour of recently renovated Museum of the History of Polish Jews, at the centre of the former Jewish Ghetto. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Jewish history of over 1000 years in Poland, from medieval eras to more modern times. This expansive museum holds art, rare pictures, documents and videos that provide an understanding of the largest Jewish community across the globe in the mid-twentieth century. An additional important sight near Warsaw is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Complex, the largest Nazi concentration camp, where more than a million people were killed. The camp has been minimally changed, granting visitors a first-hand insight into the lives, and last moments of the people who lived in the camp.
This tour is particularly special as it provides guests with a unique insight into both the rich Jewish history, and the bustle of flourishing modern European cities. Budapest provides visitors with the opportunity to visit beautiful open air markets, incredible Szecesszió architecture, and sights of a historic Jewish community, primarily located in Theodor Herzl’s family’s home, serving as the Budapest Jewish museum. Experience the lively nightlife of the city’s Jewish quarter, packed with trendy bars and restaurants, in addition to beautiful hotels.
The final destination of this trip is Prague, a medieval city located in the heart of Europe, and steeped in tradition and history. The Prague Castle, City of 100 Spires, and Terezin ghetto provides a glimpse into the tradition and history of the country, with uniquely Jewish twist. Additional highlights are the world-famous bike paths along the river, the Franz Kafka Museum, and the expansive rose garden. To book, and for more information abour Jewish heritage tours please contact IBMT Tours either by phone at 1 (877) 977-4268 or send us an email at info@ibmttours.com.