Immerse yourself in the captivating history and rich culture of Balkan Jewry with our exclusive series, “Jewish Heritage Across the Balkans: A Journey Through History and Culture.” Starting on May 12th, join us for a virtual exploration through Croatia, Trieste, Slovenia, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Discover the enduring legacy of Jewish communities, from ancient synagogues to modern-day resilience. Witness the unique blend of Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions, and learn about their significant contributions throughout history.

May 12, 2024
SESSION 1: Croatia
Explore the stunning landscapes of Croatia and uncover the active Jewish community’s proud heritage in Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Split. Witness the remarkable history and current vibrancy of this small but spirited community.

June 9, 2024
SESSION 2: Trieste
Journey through the enigmatic city of Trieste, a melting pot of cultures at the Slovenian-Italian border. Delve into the rich Jewish history dating back to the 14th century and visit the magnificent Synagogue and the former Jewish Quarter.

July 14, 2024
SESSION 3: Slovenia and Serbia
Travel through time in the former Yugoslav territories, discovering the blend of Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions. Learn about Jewish life from ancient times to the present day, including the heroic stories of Jewish Partisans during WWII.

August 11, 2024
SESSION 4: Bulgaria
We conclude our Balkan journey in Bulgaria, where the majestic Sofia Synagogue and the historic town of Samokov await. Experience the architectural splendor and deep history of the Jewish community from its earliest days to the 21st century.

Evgenia Kempinski is a Russian Jew born and raised in St. Petersburg. Her family was originally from the Pale of Settlement – Poland, Ukraine and Belorussia – and endured the suppression of Judaism in the Soviet Union then the rebirth of Jewish culture and religious life in today’s St. Petersburg. She has been an official St. Petersburg tour guide for over 15 years and is the founder and owner of St.Petersburg Jewish Tours – a company offering Jewish travelers a unique experience of showcasing the best of Russia from a Jewish point of view. She currently lives in Haifa, Israel, still keeping close connections with St. Petersburg and its Jewish community.