The Cultural Legacy of Jewish Communities in Present-Day Turkey: Izmir

Prague

25. 03. 2026 18:00

Maisel Synagogue, Maiselova 10, Prague 1

The Jewish presence in Izmir—one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, formerly known as Smyrna—dates back to antiquity. The local Jewish community experienced an unprecedented period of prosperity, particularly during the seventeenth century, when Izmir became a major cultural, religious, and commercial center for Sephardic Jews. During the same period, the city also attracted followers of Sabbatai Zevi, the controversial founder of the messianic movement. 
 
An evening with Nesim Bencoya, Director of the Izmir Jewish Heritage Project, hosted by Michaela Sidenberg, Chief Curator of the Jewish Museum in Prague.
In association with the Instituto Cervantes de Praga.
Language: English.

Reserve a seat
 

Nesim Bencoya

Born and raised in Izmir, Bencoya has dedicated himself to the preservation of local Jewish cultural heritage since 2010. As the general coordinator of the "Izmir Jewish Cultural Heritage Project," he initiated and managed restoration and conservation efforts for tangible and intangible heritage within his responsibilities. In 2017, he founded the "Izmir Sephardic Culture Festival" with the aim of further protecting and promoting the city's Jewish cultural heritage and strengthening intercultural dialogue.

Entry: free

Organizer: ŽMP


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