About this talk

The history of the Jews in Anatolia began more than 2,000 years ago with the arrival of Romaniot, Mizrahim, and Karaite communities, followed later by Ashkenazim and Sephardic Jews. In this tour, we will explore notable ancient synagogues, such as the Sardis Synagogue from the 4th century and the Ahrida Synagogue from the 15th century, along with several important Jewish settlements and cemeteries. We will also discuss influential historical figures like Sabbatai Sevi, the Camondo family, Donna Grasiya, and Joseph Nasi, and their impact on the community. 

We will continue by examining World War I and World War II in Turkey from the Jewish perspective. Sephardic cuisine and music, the Judeo-Spanish language, and ethnographic and liturgical objects with Ottoman-style influences from the museum collection will also be showcased. Finally, we will explore today's vibrant Jewish life in Turkey, including current population numbers and remaining community institutions.

About Nisya

Nisya Isman Allovi is the Director and Curator of The Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews. Born in Istanbul and graduated in Cultural Heritage and Tourism, she has attended advanced curatorial seminars at AEJM (Association of European Jewish Museums) and in the Federal Republic of Germany. She was also a Kaplan Fellow @ Yesod Cohort II, and has conducted presentations in various countries about "Jews of Turkey". Married with two children, Nisya is an active member of the Istanbul Jewish community.