Location:
This event is online only.
Explore Jewish sites in six cities in Central Europe with guide Gadi Ben-Dov. From the rich history of Krakow to the awe-inspiring architecture of Budapest, you’ll be immersed in the cultural legacies and history of Jewish communities in this iconic region.
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This event is virtual.
Gadi Ben-Dov was born in the U.S., raised in a kibbutz in Galilee, and now lives in Jerusalem, Israel. Gadi became a licensed tour guide after finishing his IDF service as an officer and travelling the world. Gadi leads and guides various groups in Israel, Spain, and Central Europe, including Federations, synagogues, Birthright, churches, family trips, and more. His love of the land and especially the people of Israel have given him insights into this country that he shares with every visitor. Together with his wife, Amy, Gadi created a travel consultancy in Israel that specializes in creating unique, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
February 20: Warsaw, Krakow, and Bratislava
We will begin our tour in Warsaw, much of which was destroyed during WWII. However, the city still holds sites of exploration like the Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery and the sole surviving prewar Jewish house of prayer, the Nożyk Synagogue. Next, we will travel to Krakow to learn about the renowned Rabbis of the city and visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory. Finally, we will end in Bratislava, home to the famous Rabbi Hatam Sofer, who was responsible for the creation of the Hasidic movements of today.
February 27: Budapest, Vienna, and Prague
On our second virtual journey, we will travel to Budapest to visit the beautiful Dohány Street Synagogue, the Jewish Quarter, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. From there, our excursion will take us to Vienna, the cultural capital of Central Europe, famous for its palaces, museums, and classical music. We will end our tour in Prague, with a visit to the oldest synagogue in Europe, the Old New Synagogue, and a walk over the ancient Charles Bridge.
Each 90-minute session starts at 10:30 am.
Leadership
Staff
Karen Rader, Director, Israel Center & Travel Initiatives
Karen Sher, Vice President, Community Engagement
Jewish Federation of St. Louis
Greg Yawitz, Board Chair
Brian Herstig, President & CEO
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