About this talk

This talk offers an overview of the Jewish presence in Rio de Janeiro, tracing its development from the colonial period to contemporary times. Through key urban spaces, community institutions, and migration stories, it highlights how Jewish life became part of the city's social and cultural landscape.

The presentation explores synagogues, cemeteries, immigrant neighborhoods, and communal centers, while reflecting on themes of memory, identity, and belonging. Among the examples discussed are the Grande Templo Israelita, founded in the early 20th century, which played a central role in Jewish religious life and cultural activities, and the Museu Judaico do Rio de Janeiro, an institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish communities to the city.

Combining historical context with visual material, the lecture offers an accessible and engaging introduction to Jewish Rio de Janeiro and its place within the broader history of the city.

About Felipe

Felipe Lichand is a historian and a licensed tour guide. He is an active member of the Jewish community in São Paulo and studied at both the Talmud Torah School and Renascença, the first Jewish school in São Paulo. His strongest connection to Judaism came through his involvement with the Jewish youth movement Hashomer Hatzair, where he was part of the leadership. It was through Hashomer Hatzair that he had the opportunity to spend a year in Israel. 

After returning to Brazil, Felipe worked on an exhibition in São Paulo, organized by the Holocaust Museum of Curitiba, which sparked his interest in Jewish history and heritage and led him to receive a research scholarship in the field. In June 2019, he joined the Judaic Tourism project, becoming its coordinator in São Paulo and Santos. He is also a member of LAZOS and is passionate about sharing his knowledge of Jewish history in Brazil and connecting with Jewish communities around the world.