Sephardic Jews in Romania

The history of Sephardic Jews in Romania dates back to the late 15th century when they first arrived in the country after being expelled from Spain and Portugal. The Sephardic Jews are a distinct Jewish ethnic group whose ancestors lived in the Iberian Peninsula for centuries before their expulsion in 1492.

History

Upon their arrival in Romania, the Sephardic Jews settled mainly in the larger cities, such as Bucharest, Iasi, and Constanta. They established synagogues, schools, and community organizations, which became the center of their social and cultural life.

During the 19th century, the Sephardic Jewish community in Romania experienced a period of growth and prosperity. They became active participants in the country's economic, political, and cultural life. Many Sephardic Jews were involved in the textile industry, banking, and international trade, which brought them great wealth and influence.

However, the 20th century brought about significant changes for the Sephardic Jews in Romania. The rise of anti-Semitism and the outbreak of World War II resulted in the persecution and murder of many Romanian Jews, including the Sephardic community. It is estimated that between 280,000 and 380,000 Romanian Jews perished during the Holocaust.

After the war, the surviving Sephardic Jews in Romania faced many challenges. The communist regime that took power in 1947 was hostile to religion and sought to suppress all forms of religious expression, including Judaism. Many synagogues and Jewish schools were closed, and Jewish cultural traditions were forbidden.

Despite these challenges, the Sephardic Jewish community in Romania managed to survive and maintain their unique cultural identity. In the 1990s, after the fall of communism, there was a resurgence of interest in Jewish culture and religion. Many Sephardic Jews began to rediscover their roots and reconnect with their Jewish heritage.

Today, the Sephardic Jewish community in Romania is small but vibrant. They continue to maintain their cultural traditions and pass them on to future generations. There are several active Sephardic synagogues in Romania, and the community participates in various cultural and religious events throughout the year.

References

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