TCZ Partner

Etz Hayyim Synagogue

Etz Hayyim Synagogue is the last remaining witness to 2,300 years of Jewish history on Crete and a testimony to the island’s multi-faith past at the intersection between Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Its founding director defined it as a “place of prayer, recollection and reconciliation” and it thus functions as an inclusive religious space, a historic site, a venue for cultural events and a research and educational institution. Its activities include religious services in the open spirit of Hellenistic Judaism, concerts, readings and lectures reflecting the Eastern Mediterranean heritage, guided tours for over 25,000 visitors every year, and exhibitions on intercultural themes and (Cretan) Jewish history as well as lectures for the general public and seminars for local schools. Etz Hayyim thus provides a unique opportunity to learn about the multi-faith history of Crete and has collaborated with various local and international associations in artistic and historical projects.

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