Roots and Resilience: The Jewish Story of Romania and Moldova

Welcome to an immersive three-part series exploring the rich and complex Jewish history of Romania and Moldova (aka Bessarabia). From the roots of Jewish life in the 2nd century AD to the vibrant communities of the 18th and 19th centuries, and the tumultuous events of the 20th century, this virtual journey will take you through the heart of these lands, visiting both bustling capitals—Bucharest and Kishinev—and smaller towns in the region. Together, we'll uncover the intricate tapestry of Jewish heritage in Romania and Moldova, delving deep into the political, cultural, and social landscapes that shaped Jewish life across the centuries.

Part 1 - October 20, 2024
Echoes of the Past: Unearthing the Centuries-old History of Jewish Romania
Discover the early foundations of Jewish life in Romania, tracing its evolution from ancient times through the flourishing communities of the 18th and 19th centuries. We’ll journey to historic Jewish towns, exploring their vibrant communities and daily life, setting the stage for understanding Romania's Jewish heritage.

Part 2 - November 17, 2024
Moldova (Former Bessarabia) and Its Jewry
Step into the streets of Kishinev, a city once home to over 50,000 Jews, where we’ll recount the devastating pogrom of 1903 that left an indelible mark on Jewish history and culture. We'll explore the lives of Kishinev’s Jewish intellectuals, political leaders, and everyday citizens, while also discussing the present and future of the Jewish community in Moldova.

Part 3 - December 15, 2024
Resilience and Transformation: Jewish Romania in the 20th Century
Witness the dramatic shifts in Jewish life throughout Romania in the 20th century, from the challenges of the World Wars to the migration of Jews to Israel. Our virtual tour will take us to surviving synagogues and Jewish communities, including the Grand Synagogue of Bucharest, as we explore the resilience and transformation of Romanian Jewry over the last 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.