The Jews of Croatia:

A Rich Heritage of History and Culture

Thursday, February 19

USA 12:00 pm PT / 3:00 pm ET

UK 8:00 pm / France 9:00 pm / Israel 10:00 pm

The talk will last approximately 90 minutes

About this talk

This presentation explores the Jewish community in Croatia, tracing its origins back to Roman times around the 1st century CE. In the 16th century, Sephardic Jews fleeing the Iberian Peninsula arrived, while the Austrian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries welcomed a significant Ashkenazi Jewish community from Central and Eastern Europe.

Jewish communities flourished in cities such as Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb. Dubrovnik is home to the oldest Sephardic synagogue in continuous use, dating back to the 14th century. Similarly, Split's synagogue, located within the historic Diocletian's Palace, is one of Europe's oldest Sephardic synagogues.

The community faced immense challenges during World War II, with many being persecuted and deported to concentration camps. Notably, the Zagreb Jewish Community Center remained operational during the Holocaust, providing vital support.

Today, the Jewish community in Croatia is small yet active, with the Hugo Kon School in Zagreb as the only Jewish day school in the former Yugoslavia. Through cultural events and educational programs, they actively preserve their heritage, ensuring the rich legacy of Croatian Jews endures.

About Ante

Ante Jericevic is an architect from Zagreb, Croatia. He is also a dedicated leader within the local Jewish community. He is married and a father of three. Ante serves on the boards of both the Jewish community in Zagreb and the Hugo Kon School, the only Jewish day school in the former Yugoslavia.

Ante's Jewish identity was shaped early on by his involvement in Sunday school and the Youth Club, as well as by his participation in seminars such as Bejahad, Gesher, SummerU, and Limmud. His recent work with JCC Global and Haver Serbia has further strengthened his connections across regional Jewish communities, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.

You may also be interested in:

Jewish Bulgaria on March 1

Jewish Sarajevo and Bosnia on March 8

RECORDING INFORMATION

This talk will be recorded and shared with registrants the day after.

It will be available for 3 days, and 7 days for members.