Virtual Tour: The Secret Jews of Majorca Island

February 7, 2021 - 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Sundays 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., January 24, 31 and February 7 and 14

We will hopefully be able to travel freely before too long. Until then, we can travel from the comfort of home!

A story you need to know. A story the world needs to know.

The Spanish Island of Majorca is known for its beach resorts, limestone mountains, and being home to tennis celebrity Rafa Nadal. But Majorca holds a secret, never discussed in most travel guides. During the Inquisition, the Crypto-Jews or Chuetas publicly professed Catholicism while privately adhering to Judaism. Synagogues were secretly built in private homes. Signs of this “secret” community can still be found today with many of the current jewelry shops having been kept within their families for generations beforehand. Join guide Dani Rotstein on a special virtual tour of Majorca’s history and its lessons for all Jews today in a three-part series. Join us for any or all of them. The link will be in Hashavua or contact the office!

• January 24 – Medieval Majorca – The Golden Age
• January 31 – Crypto Judaism – Keeping the Faith During the Inquisition
• February 7 – Rebirth & Renewal – Modern Day Revival on the island
• February 14 – Bonus Cooking Class – Tracing Jewish Roots in Today’s Spanish Cuisine

Dani Rotstein moved from New Jersey to the island of Majorca, Spain, in 2014. There, he learned of the taboo history of the Conversos or Chuetas of the island. In 2018, he founded Limud Mallorca and has run over 50 successful events promoting diversity and inclusion in the small, yet growing, Jewish community. And he reminds us that we will finish well before the NFL Championship games and the Super Bowl!