Tours:,
Keszthely-Tihany 9:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M.
Our trip will begin
with a visit to the Festetics estate in Keszthely and a tour of the baroque-style Castle, where we will learn about the aristocratic
lifestyle of 18th-19th century Hungary. We will then visit the still-functioning Keszthely Synagogue.
Our next stop will be the Tihany Peninsula to see the Open-air Ethnographic Museum, the charming
houses of the old village, and the Potter's House. We will also visit the unique Doll Museum, featuring
hundreds of colorful dolls from all over the world. There will be a short amount of time for shopping.
Price: € 20
Option 1: Budapest
8:30 A.M. – 8.30
P.M.
The general
part of our tour covers Budapest's major highlights, presenting its grandeur and Old World charm. We
will visit both sides of the city – the colorful hills of Buda and the bustling businesslike boulevards of Pest. We
will explore the magnificent House of Parliament, the elegant Andrassy Avenue, and the impressive Heroes Square.
We will stroll around the Castle District and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the city from Fishermen's
Bastion.
The Jewish interest part of the tour includes a visit
to the Old Jewish Quarter in the heart of Pest, featuring the impressive Dohany Street Synagogue (Europe's largest synagogue),
the Jewish Museum with its wealth of Judaica treasures, the unique Holocaust Memorial, the newly re-opened Rumbach Street
Synagogue, the memorial statue dedicated to Carl Lutz (the Swiss Consul who saved thousands of Jews) and the beautifully restored
Orthodox Kazinczy Street Synagogue.
Price: € 30
Option
2. Underground adventure at the Balatonederics Csodabogyos Cave – for ages 10 and
over. For more information, visit http://www.csodabogyos.hu/ .
8:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.
This is a 2-3 hour adventure. You will need to wear comfortable
clothing and shoes or boots. Caving overalls, helmets and headlamps are provided, but you should be generally
physically fit.
Price: € 30 per person including transportation.
Option 1: Herend – Kapolcs - Veszprem.
9:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Herend is known for its world-famous porcelain
factory founded in the early 19th century. We will visit the Herend Porcelain Museum to learn about the factory's
history, and enjoy the beauty of the exceptional porcelain pieces manufactured in the traditional manner. The
Museum also contains the world's largest collection of Herend porcelain. Visitors will not only be
shown how porcelain is manufactured, but will also take a lesson in the art of porcelain making.
Afterwards, we will visit the Miniature Park in Kapolcs. See the most beautiful buildings in Hungary in
miniature.
We will then continue on to Veszprem, one of the area's largest cities, with
its zoo and shopping center. We will arrive back at the hotel at around 5:00 P.M.
Price: € 30
Option 2: Bob Park and Serpa Adventure Park. Fun for kids!
(For more information, visit
http://www.balatonibob.hu/ and http://www.serpakalandpark.hu/ .
9:30 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Transfer price: €15 (the payment for rides, on clients cost)
Option 1. Sopron-Eisenstadt
8:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.
The earliest traces of a Jewish community in Western Hungary, dating back to the 13th century, are found
in Sopron. The Jewish merchants who settled in Sopron probably came from Austria and Bavaria, like other settlers at that
time. Sopron is known for its wealth of historic buildings. The Old Synagogue
(built around 1300) is one of the most interesting, a rare relic of a medieval Jewish culture whose other material
remains have almost entirely vanished.
In the Middle Ages, Eisenstadt was probably
the only town in the western Hungarian region of Burgenland (Austria) to have a fully developed Jewish community, complete
with a synagogue, mikveh and rabbinate. The privilege of self-governance was made possible because large
landowners and smaller nobility were granted the right to settle Jews on their land at that time. This
led to the establishment of the Seven Communities in western
Hungary, on the estate of the Esterhazy family. The Seven Communities was the first multi-community Jewish organization in
Hungary. The communities included Eisenstadt (Kismarton), Mattersdorf (Nagymarton), Deutschkreutz (Sopronkeresztur), Frauenkirchen
(Boldogasszony), Kittsee (Kopcseny), Lackenbach (Lakompak), and Kobersdorf (Kabold). They were headed by
the chief rabbinate of Eisenstadt and had their own internal administration. As a result of their relative
freedom, they flourished as a rich Jewish cultural center that was famous throughout Central and Eastern Europe.
The itinerary for the full-day tour is as follows:
We
will arrive in Eisenstadt, the capital of Burgenland (Austria), and visit the Judengasse (Jewish Street) where we will explore
the Austrian Jewish Museum, housed in the historic home of Samson Wertheimer, Hungary's Chief Rabbi in the late 17th
and early 18th century. We will tour Samson Wertheimer's private synagogue, the most extraordinary
attraction of the Jewish Museum. This beautiful synagogue is one of the very few in Austria to have escaped Nazi vandalism.
Our next stop is Sopron, one of the oldest and most charming cities in Hungary,
built on the ruins of a Roman town called Scarbantia. We will explore the almost intact medieval
inner city, including the former Jewish street (today called Uj utca – New Street) where a Jewish community had existed
until the beginning of the 16th century. The two highlights will be the two unique synagogues built around 1300
that have been saved from oblivion.
Price: € 30
Option 2: Vienna.
Vienna is a remarkable city. Its important place in history, its
stunning architecture, its art and music combine to embody the phrase “Old World Charm.” We
will see the Belvedere palace, the State Opera House, and the Parliament building. We will tour
the Hofburg Palace – the residence of the Habsburgs – enjoy the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum
and the Imperial Silver Collection.
The Jewish interest part of our tour includes
a stroll along the Judengasse and a visit to the ruins of the Medieval Synagogue.
Price: € 50
Option 1: Boat ride to Siofok
9:30 A.M – 3:00 P.M.
Our day will begin with an hour-long pleasure boat ride across Lake Balaton.
We will visit Siofok, the capital of the southern shore. Arriving at Szantodpuszta at noon, we will
see an exquisite embroidery collection and tour the Lake Balaton Aquarium where we will learn about the 18 different types
of fish which inhabit the lake. Afterwards, we will take a ferry ride back to the northern shore. We will
arrive at the hotel at 3.00 P.M.
Price: € 25
Option 2: Balaton Uplands National
Park. A 2-3 hour guided walking tour. For more information, please visit http://www.bfnpi.hu/index.php?pg=sub_341 .
9:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.
Price: € 15 transportation
+ € 5 guided tour
FOR MORE INFORMATION, DON'T HESITATE TO CALL.
Call us at: (718) 258 - 4865 or (718) 338 - 8798
Toll free (866) 338 - 8798
Fax us at: (718) 338 - 1581
Email
us at: GoTravel2C@aol.com 
Heritage A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE JEWS OF HUNGARY
Jews had settled in Hungary as early as the
3rd century CE, when the area was part of the Roman Empire´s province of Pannonia. Written documents from the 11th century
indicate the existence of Jewish settlement and the creation of Jewish communities in the nascent Hungarian state. Increasingly,
Jews settled in the towns, leading to the emergence of the "historical Jewish communities" of Buda, Esztergom, Sopron,
Tata and Old Buda.
In the 16th-17th centuries, Hungary was occupied by the Turks. Following the expulsion of the Turks,
the re-settlement of the devastated country began. Along with Germans, Slovaks and others, Jews too arrived in increasing
numbers - first from Bohemia and Moravia, and later also from Galicia, after it had been incorporated into the Monarchy. The
number of Hungarian Jews increased from 20,000 in 1769 to approximately 80,000 in 1787. The period between the two World Wars
was a time of prosperity and accomplishment for Hungarian Jewry. This period saw the emergence of Jewish intellectuals, well-trained
professionals, and merchants, who regarded Hungary as their homeland and had no problems reconciling their Hungarian and Jewish
heritage. Hungarian Jewry played a key role in the creation and development of Hungarian trade and industry. World War II,
German fascism and the reign of terror caused by the Hungarian Arrow-Cross brought unimaginable suffering to Hungarian Jewry.
Six hundred thousand out of nine hundred thousand Hungarian-speaking Jews perished in the Holocaust. Hungarian Jewry has still
not recovered from the losses occasioned by the mass deportations and interment in forced labor camps.
Budapest
through Jewish Eyes
Learn about Central Europe´s largest Jewish Community, walk through the former Ghetto,
visit the Dohany Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the Kazinczy Orthodox Shul and "see" the city´s hidden Jewish
treasures. 29/38.- Budapest, Synagogue
This is Europe´s largest synagogue, with capacity for seating a congregation
of 3,000. Next to the synagogue is the Jewish Museum (which houses a Holocaust memorial room) and the Hall of Heroes (with
the Monument of Hungarian Jewish Martyrs). The two towers that you see are 43 meters high. Special concerts are held in the
synagogue on weekdays.
Kazinczy Street - Dob Street: The Orthodox Jewish Quarter of Budapest.
Among
the other synagogues in Budapest, this building on Kazinczy Street and Dob Street reminds us of a typical European synagogue.
The most important institutes are located around the Synagogue.
In the middle of the courtyard you can find the building
of the Kazinczy Synagogue. In the front of the courtyard stands an iron Chuppah. Around it are the kindergarten, the Hanna
kosher community kitchen, the Sasz-Chevra Synagogue, and the Bet Hamidrash. From the Dob street side there is the butcher´s
and the community office, the Chevra Kadisha, and the Cultural Center. Just a few steps outside the courtyard, still on Kazinczy
Street, you can find the bakery. and further on - the mikve.
The Kaziczy Synagogue was built in 1912-13 by the Loffler
Brothers.
Budapest
Rabbi Yaakov Koppel Reich was born in Verbe in 5588 (1838), and died on the
17th of Elul 5689 (1929). In 1890 he was elected rabbi of the Orthodox community in Budapest, was actively engaged in strengthening
religion and established the Toras Emes School. In addition to his Talmudic erudition, he was involved in matters of society
and was considered one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Hungary. In 1905 he presided over the Convention of Orthodox Rabbis
and Community Leaders. In 1927, at the age of 90, he was appointed Orthodox representative to the upper house of the Hungarian
Parliament, and was its most elderly member.
He left no works, but was widely quoted by rabbis of his generation.
Rabbi
Shimon Oppenheim was born in 5511 (1751) and died in 5611 (1851) at the age of 100. He served as rabbi of the Orthodox
community of Budapest for over fifty years. He was known as a wonder worker, and guaranteed that whoever visits his gravesite
and gives charity for his soul, " the All Merciful will hear his cry for help."
Uehal
Rabbi
Moshe Teitlebaum, author of the Yismach Moshe, was born in 5519 (1759) and died on the 28th of Tammuz, 5601 (1841)
in Uehal (Staoraljaujlely). He was the scion of a family of rabbis descended from the great halakhic authority, Rabbi Moshe
Isserlis (the Ramah). He was a disciple of "Hachozeh Mi-Lublin" - the "Seer of Lublin" and the Maggid
of Kozienice. He also studied with his uncle, Rabbi Avraham Aryeh Leib of Strezenov. At the age of twenty-five he was appointed
rabbi of Shineve (Sieniaws), and afterwards served as rabbi of Uehal in Hungary for the rest of his life. He became known
in the Jewish communities of Galicia and Hungary as a wonder-worker, and multitudes of Jews crowded his doorstep to obtain
his blessing. His descendants, as well, were prominent Admorim in Galicia and Hungary.
He was buried in Uehal, and his
grave became a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking help in Hungary and its environs. He was the author of the Yismach Moshe.
Kaliv
Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Taub was born in 5504 (1744) and died in 5581 (1821). He was among
the first rabbis to spread the Hassidic movement in Hungary. At an early age, he was already renowned for his great benevolence,
and was one of the disciples of Rabbi Elimelech of Lisenks. He was buried in Kaliv. During the heyday of Hungarian Jewry,
the 7th of Adar became a day of mass pilgrimage to his gravesite. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and many stories are
told of the wonders that resulted from praying at his grave.
Krestirer (Bodrogkereszur)
Rabbi Yeshaya
Steiner was born in 5612 (1852) and died on the 3rd of Iyar 5685 (1925). He was buried in his city of Krestirer.
He was the faithful assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske (Olaszliszka), and a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz
(Nowy Sacz). Upon the death of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch, he began to be known as a miracle worker and thousands of chassidim flocked
to him, including most of the disciples of his Rabbi. In spite of his greatness, he continued to conduct himself with the
same simplicity as before, and even signed his name as the assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske.
His picture with his
signature is said to protect against mice in the home.
Liske (Olaszliszka)
Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Friedman
was born in Iyar 5550 (1790) and died on the 14th of Av 5634 (1874). He was a disciple of Rabbi Moshe Teitlebaum, author of
the Yismach Moshe, and a disciple of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Bonyhad. He was also a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz,
who gave an enthusiastic approbation to his book Akh Pri Tevu´ah. He was renowned as a Torah giant and a man of noble
character, and was especially renowned for his love of Israel and love of peace. He was the first Admor of the Liske dynasty.
Mishkoltz (Miskolc)
Rabbi Meir Avraham died on the 26th of Elul 5589 (1824). He was the author
of Pri Tzaddik and served as the rabbi of Tashba. He was one of the disciples of the Maggid of Meseritz, and after his death
frequented the "Chozeh of Lublin." His grandson, who published his book, testifies that many of his writings, which
include his "chidushim" and a large treatise on the 316 mitzvas, have been lost.
Siget (Sighetul
Marmatiei)
Rabbi Chananiah Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum, author of the Kedushas Yom Tov, was born on the 6th of Nissan
5596 (1836). He died on the 29th of Shevat 5664 (1904). Upon the death of his father, Rabbi Yekutiel Yehudah of Siget he assumed
his father´s rabbinic position. He too headed the yeshiva in Siget. The two-volume book Kedushas Yom Tov on the Torah
and on the festivals was the only book that remained of his teachings. He had two famous sons - Rabbi Chaim Zvi of Siget and
Rabbi Yoel of Satmar (Satu Mare).
Presburg (Bratislava)
Rabbi Moshe Sofer, the Chasam Sofer,
was born in 5523 (1763) and died on the 28th of Tishri 5600 (1840). He was one the greatest Jewish scholars living in the
first half of the 19th century. He was a disciple of Rabbi Nasan Adler, Rabbi of Frankfurt, and the son-in-law (by second
marriage) of Rabbi Akiva Eger. He was appointed rabbi of Presburg (the capital of Slovakia), a large Jewish metropolis, and
retained this position throughout his life.
He founded the famous yeshiva in Presburg, which was attended by hundreds
of students. He waged a fierce battle against the Reform movement, which was spreading throughout central and Western Europe,
and stated both in writing as well as orally - that "Chadash Asur min Hatorah" - any innovation is strictly forbidden,
according to the Torah.
He left a legacy of numerous manuscripts, many of which have been published. His important books
include "Chasam Sofer (an acronym for "Chidushei Toras Moshe"), responsa (six volumes), Chasam Sofer Chidushim
al Ha-Shas, Toras Moshe, and commentaries and drashos on the Talmud.
Not long ago, a supreme effort was made to save
his grave from total destruction when the authorities planned to erect a central crossroads for the railway system. Careful
planning left the place intact and it is a fitting site for people to gather together in prayer.
Prague
Rabbi Yehudah Loew - the Maharal of Prague
Born in 5272 (1512) and died on the 18th of Elul 5369 (1609). The
Maharal is engraved in the hearts of the Jewish people and is enveloped in miraculous stories. He was one of the greatest
spiritual giants, original and unique in his thinking and in his commentaries on aggadah.
Some of his famous disciples
include Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller, author of the Tosefos Yom Tov on the Mishnah, Rabbi David Ganz, author of the Tzemach
Sus, and Rabbi Eliyahu Loanz.
He served as rabbi in Mikulov (Nikelsburg), Pozen and Prague. His writings include Gur
Aryeh - a commentary on Rashi, Gevuros Hashem, Derech Chayim, Netivos Olam, Be´er Hagolah, Tiferes Yisrael, Nezach Yisrael,
Or Chadash, Ner Mitzvah, Chidushei Maharal, Chidushei Gur Aryeh, Sefer Perushei Maharal MiPrague le-Aggadot Ha-Shas and drashos.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE JEWS OF HUNGARY
Jews had settled in Hungary as early
as the 3rd century CE, when the area was part of the Roman Empire´s province of Pannonia. Written documents from the
11th century indicate the existence of Jewish settlement and the creation of Jewish communities in the nascent Hungarian state.
Increasingly, Jews settled in the towns, leading to the emergence of the "historical Jewish communities" of Buda,
Esztergom, Sopron, Tata and Old Buda.
In the 16th-17th centuries, Hungary was occupied by the Turks. Following the expulsion
of the Turks, the re-settlement of the devastated country began. Along with Germans, Slovaks and others, Jews too arrived
in increasing numbers - first from Bohemia and Moravia, and later also from Galicia, after it had been incorporated into the
Monarchy. The number of Hungarian Jews increased from 20,000 in 1769 to approximately 80,000 in 1787. The period between the
two World Wars was a time of prosperity and accomplishment for Hungarian Jewry. This period saw the emergence of Jewish intellectuals,
well-trained professionals, and merchants, who regarded Hungary as their homeland and had no problems reconciling their Hungarian
and Jewish heritage. Hungarian Jewry played a key role in the creation and development of Hungarian trade and industry. World
War II, German fascism and the reign of terror caused by the Hungarian Arrow-Cross brought unimaginable suffering to Hungarian
Jewry. Six hundred thousand out of nine hundred thousand Hungarian-speaking Jews perished in the Holocaust. Hungarian Jewry
has still not recovered from the losses occasioned by the mass deportations and interment in forced labor camps.
Budapest
through Jewish Eyes
Learn about Central Europe´s largest Jewish Community, walk through the former Ghetto,
visit the Dohany Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the Kazinczy Orthodox Shul and "see" the city´s hidden Jewish
treasures. 29/38.- Budapest, Synagogue
This is Europe´s largest synagogue, with capacity for seating a congregation
of 3,000. Next to the synagogue is the Jewish Museum (which houses a Holocaust memorial room) and the Hall of Heroes (with
the Monument of Hungarian Jewish Martyrs). The two towers that you see are 43 meters high. Special concerts are held in the
synagogue on weekdays.
Kazinczy Street - Dob Street: The Orthodox Jewish Quarter of Budapest.
Among
the other synagogues in Budapest, this building on Kazinczy Street and Dob Street reminds us of a typical European synagogue.
The most important institutes are located around the Synagogue.
In the middle of the courtyard you can find the building
of the Kazinczy Synagogue. In the front of the courtyard stands an iron Chuppah. Around it are the kindergarten, the Hanna
kosher community kitchen, the Sasz-Chevra Synagogue, and the Bet Hamidrash. From the Dob street side there is the butcher´s
and the community office, the Chevra Kadisha, and the Cultural Center. Just a few steps outside the courtyard, still on Kazinczy
Street, you can find the bakery. and further on - the mikve.
The Kaziczy Synagogue was built in 1912-13 by the Loffler
Brothers.
Budapest
Rabbi Yaakov Koppel Reich was born in Verbe in 5588 (1838), and died on the
17th of Elul 5689 (1929). In 1890 he was elected rabbi of the Orthodox community in Budapest, was actively engaged in strengthening
religion and established the Toras Emes School. In addition to his Talmudic erudition, he was involved in matters of society
and was considered one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Hungary. In 1905 he presided over the Convention of Orthodox Rabbis
and Community Leaders. In 1927, at the age of 90, he was appointed Orthodox representative to the upper house of the Hungarian
Parliament, and was its most elderly member.
He left no works, but was widely quoted by rabbis of his generation.
Rabbi
Shimon Oppenheim was born in 5511 (1751) and died in 5611 (1851) at the age of 100. He served as rabbi of the Orthodox
community of Budapest for over fifty years. He was known as a wonder worker, and guaranteed that whoever visits his gravesite
and gives charity for his soul, " the All Merciful will hear his cry for help."
Uehal
Rabbi
Moshe Teitlebaum, author of the Yismach Moshe, was born in 5519 (1759) and died on the 28th of Tammuz, 5601 (1841)
in Uehal (Staoraljaujlely). He was the scion of a family of rabbis descended from the great halakhic authority, Rabbi Moshe
Isserlis (the Ramah). He was a disciple of "Hachozeh Mi-Lublin" - the "Seer of Lublin" and the Maggid
of Kozienice. He also studied with his uncle, Rabbi Avraham Aryeh Leib of Strezenov. At the age of twenty-five he was appointed
rabbi of Shineve (Sieniaws), and afterwards served as rabbi of Uehal in Hungary for the rest of his life. He became known
in the Jewish communities of Galicia and Hungary as a wonder-worker, and multitudes of Jews crowded his doorstep to obtain
his blessing. His descendants, as well, were prominent Admorim in Galicia and Hungary.
He was buried in Uehal, and his
grave became a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking help in Hungary and its environs. He was the author of the Yismach Moshe.
Kaliv
Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Taub was born in 5504 (1744) and died in 5581 (1821). He was among
the first rabbis to spread the Hassidic movement in Hungary. At an early age, he was already renowned for his great benevolence,
and was one of the disciples of Rabbi Elimelech of Lisenks. He was buried in Kaliv. During the heyday of Hungarian Jewry,
the 7th of Adar became a day of mass pilgrimage to his gravesite. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and many stories are
told of the wonders that resulted from praying at his grave.
Krestirer (Bodrogkereszur)
Rabbi Yeshaya
Steiner was born in 5612 (1852) and died on the 3rd of Iyar 5685 (1925). He was buried in his city of Krestirer.
He was the faithful assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske (Olaszliszka), and a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz
(Nowy Sacz). Upon the death of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch, he began to be known as a miracle worker and thousands of chassidim flocked
to him, including most of the disciples of his Rabbi. In spite of his greatness, he continued to conduct himself with the
same simplicity as before, and even signed his name as the assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske.
His picture with his
signature is said to protect against mice in the home.
Liske (Olaszliszka)
Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Friedman
was born in Iyar 5550 (1790) and died on the 14th of Av 5634 (1874). He was a disciple of Rabbi Moshe Teitlebaum, author of
the Yismach Moshe, and a disciple of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Bonyhad. He was also a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz,
who gave an enthusiastic approbation to his book Akh Pri Tevu´ah. He was renowned as a Torah giant and a man of noble
character, and was especially renowned for his love of Israel and love of peace. He was the first Admor of the Liske dynasty.
Mishkoltz (Miskolc)
Rabbi Meir Avraham died on the 26th of Elul 5589 (1824). He was the author
of Pri Tzaddik and served as the rabbi of Tashba. He was one of the disciples of the Maggid of Meseritz, and after his death
frequented the "Chozeh of Lublin." His grandson, who published his book, testifies that many of his writings, which
include his "chidushim" and a large treatise on the 316 mitzvas, have been lost.
Siget (Sighetul
Marmatiei)
Rabbi Chananiah Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum, author of the Kedushas Yom Tov, was born on the 6th of Nissan
5596 (1836). He died on the 29th of Shevat 5664 (1904). Upon the death of his father, Rabbi Yekutiel Yehudah of Siget he assumed
his father´s rabbinic position. He too headed the yeshiva in Siget. The two-volume book Kedushas Yom Tov on the Torah
and on the festivals was the only book that remained of his teachings. He had two famous sons - Rabbi Chaim Zvi of Siget and
Rabbi Yoel of Satmar (Satu Mare).
Presburg (Bratislava)
Rabbi Moshe Sofer, the Chasam Sofer,
was born in 5523 (1763) and died on the 28th of Tishri 5600 (1840). He was one the greatest Jewish scholars living in the
first half of the 19th century. He was a disciple of Rabbi Nasan Adler, Rabbi of Frankfurt, and the son-in-law (by second
marriage) of Rabbi Akiva Eger. He was appointed rabbi of Presburg (the capital of Slovakia), a large Jewish metropolis, and
retained this position throughout his life.
He founded the famous yeshiva in Presburg, which was attended by hundreds
of students. He waged a fierce battle against the Reform movement, which was spreading throughout central and Western Europe,
and stated both in writing as well as orally - that "Chadash Asur min Hatorah" - any innovation is strictly forbidden,
according to the Torah.
He left a legacy of numerous manuscripts, many of which have been published. His important books
include "Chasam Sofer (an acronym for "Chidushei Toras Moshe"), responsa (six volumes), Chasam Sofer Chidushim
al Ha-Shas, Toras Moshe, and commentaries and drashos on the Talmud.
Not long ago, a supreme effort was made to save
his grave from total destruction when the authorities planned to erect a central crossroads for the railway system. Careful
planning left the place intact and it is a fitting site for people to gather together in prayer.
Prague
Rabbi Yehudah Loew - the Maharal of Prague
Born in 5272 (1512) and died on the 18th of Elul 5369 (1609). The
Maharal is engraved in the hearts of the Jewish people and is enveloped in miraculous stories. He was one of the greatest
spiritual giants, original and unique in his thinking and in his commentaries on aggadah.
Some of his famous disciples
include Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller, author of the Tosefos Yom Tov on the Mishnah, Rabbi David Ganz, author of the Tzemach
Sus, and Rabbi Eliyahu Loanz.
He served as rabbi in Mikulov (Nikelsburg), Pozen and Prague. His writings include Gur
Aryeh - a commentary on Rashi, Gevuros Hashem, Derech Chayim, Netivos Olam, Be´er Hagolah, Tiferes Yisrael, Nezach Yisrael,
Or Chadash, Ner Mitzvah, Chidushei Maharal, Chidushei Gur Aryeh, Sefer Perushei Maharal MiPrague le-Aggadot Ha-Shas and drashos.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE JEWS OF HUNGARY
Jews had settled in Hungary as early as the 3rd
century CE, when the area was part of the Roman Empire´s province of Pannonia. Written documents from the 11th century
indicate the existence of Jewish settlement and the creation of Jewish communities in the nascent Hungarian state. Increasingly,
Jews settled in the towns, leading to the emergence of the "historical Jewish communities" of Buda, Esztergom, Sopron,
Tata and Old Buda.
In the 16th-17th centuries, Hungary was occupied by the Turks. Following the expulsion of the Turks,
the re-settlement of the devastated country began. Along with Germans, Slovaks and others, Jews too arrived in increasing
numbers - first from Bohemia and Moravia, and later also from Galicia, after it had been incorporated into the Monarchy. The
number of Hungarian Jews increased from 20,000 in 1769 to approximately 80,000 in 1787. The period between the two World Wars
was a time of prosperity and accomplishment for Hungarian Jewry. This period saw the emergence of Jewish intellectuals, well-trained
professionals, and merchants, who regarded Hungary as their homeland and had no problems reconciling their Hungarian and Jewish
heritage. Hungarian Jewry played a key role in the creation and development of Hungarian trade and industry. World War II,
German fascism and the reign of terror caused by the Hungarian Arrow-Cross brought unimaginable suffering to Hungarian Jewry.
Six hundred thousand out of nine hundred thousand Hungarian-speaking Jews perished in the Holocaust. Hungarian Jewry has still
not recovered from the losses occasioned by the mass deportations and interment in forced labor camps.
Budapest
through Jewish Eyes
Learn about Central Europe´s largest Jewish Community, walk through the former Ghetto,
visit the Dohany Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the Kazinczy Orthodox Shul and "see" the city´s hidden Jewish
treasures. 29/38.- Budapest, Synagogue
This is Europe´s largest synagogue, with capacity for seating a congregation
of 3,000. Next to the synagogue is the Jewish Museum (which houses a Holocaust memorial room) and the Hall of Heroes (with
the Monument of Hungarian Jewish Martyrs). The two towers that you see are 43 meters high. Special concerts are held in the
synagogue on weekdays.
Kazinczy Street - Dob Street: The Orthodox Jewish Quarter of Budapest.
Among
the other synagogues in Budapest, this building on Kazinczy Street and Dob Street reminds us of a typical European synagogue.
The most important institutes are located around the Synagogue.
In the middle of the courtyard you can find the building
of the Kazinczy Synagogue. In the front of the courtyard stands an iron Chuppah. Around it are the kindergarten, the Hanna
kosher community kitchen, the Sasz-Chevra Synagogue, and the Bet Hamidrash. From the Dob street side there is the butcher´s
and the community office, the Chevra Kadisha, and the Cultural Center. Just a few steps outside the courtyard, still on Kazinczy
Street, you can find the bakery. and further on - the mikve.
The Kaziczy Synagogue was built in 1912-13 by the Loffler
Brothers.
Budapest
Rabbi Yaakov Koppel Reich was born in Verbe in 5588 (1838), and died on the
17th of Elul 5689 (1929). In 1890 he was elected rabbi of the Orthodox community in Budapest, was actively engaged in strengthening
religion and established the Toras Emes School. In addition to his Talmudic erudition, he was involved in matters of society
and was considered one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Hungary. In 1905 he presided over the Convention of Orthodox Rabbis
and Community Leaders. In 1927, at the age of 90, he was appointed Orthodox representative to the upper house of the Hungarian
Parliament, and was its most elderly member.
He left no works, but was widely quoted by rabbis of his generation.
Rabbi
Shimon Oppenheim was born in 5511 (1751) and died in 5611 (1851) at the age of 100. He served as rabbi of the Orthodox
community of Budapest for over fifty years. He was known as a wonder worker, and guaranteed that whoever visits his gravesite
and gives charity for his soul, " the All Merciful will hear his cry for help."
Uehal
Rabbi
Moshe Teitlebaum, author of the Yismach Moshe, was born in 5519 (1759) and died on the 28th of Tammuz, 5601 (1841)
in Uehal (Staoraljaujlely). He was the scion of a family of rabbis descended from the great halakhic authority, Rabbi Moshe
Isserlis (the Ramah). He was a disciple of "Hachozeh Mi-Lublin" - the "Seer of Lublin" and the Maggid
of Kozienice. He also studied with his uncle, Rabbi Avraham Aryeh Leib of Strezenov. At the age of twenty-five he was appointed
rabbi of Shineve (Sieniaws), and afterwards served as rabbi of Uehal in Hungary for the rest of his life. He became known
in the Jewish communities of Galicia and Hungary as a wonder-worker, and multitudes of Jews crowded his doorstep to obtain
his blessing. His descendants, as well, were prominent Admorim in Galicia and Hungary.
He was buried in Uehal, and his
grave became a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking help in Hungary and its environs. He was the author of the Yismach Moshe.
Kaliv
Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Taub was born in 5504 (1744) and died in 5581 (1821). He was among
the first rabbis to spread the Hassidic movement in Hungary. At an early age, he was already renowned for his great benevolence,
and was one of the disciples of Rabbi Elimelech of Lisenks. He was buried in Kaliv. During the heyday of Hungarian Jewry,
the 7th of Adar became a day of mass pilgrimage to his gravesite. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and many stories are
told of the wonders that resulted from praying at his grave.
Krestirer (Bodrogkereszur)
Rabbi Yeshaya
Steiner was born in 5612 (1852) and died on the 3rd of Iyar 5685 (1925). He was buried in his city of Krestirer.
He was the faithful assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske (Olaszliszka), and a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz
(Nowy Sacz). Upon the death of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch, he began to be known as a miracle worker and thousands of chassidim flocked
to him, including most of the disciples of his Rabbi. In spite of his greatness, he continued to conduct himself with the
same simplicity as before, and even signed his name as the assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske.
His picture with his
signature is said to protect against mice in the home.
Liske (Olaszliszka)
Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Friedman
was born in Iyar 5550 (1790) and died on the 14th of Av 5634 (1874). He was a disciple of Rabbi Moshe Teitlebaum, author of
the Yismach Moshe, and a disciple of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Bonyhad. He was also a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz,
who gave an enthusiastic approbation to his book Akh Pri Tevu´ah. He was renowned as a Torah giant and a man of noble
character, and was especially renowned for his love of Israel and love of peace. He was the first Admor of the Liske dynasty.
Mishkoltz (Miskolc)
Rabbi Meir Avraham died on the 26th of Elul 5589 (1824). He was the author
of Pri Tzaddik and served as the rabbi of Tashba. He was one of the disciples of the Maggid of Meseritz, and after his death
frequented the "Chozeh of Lublin." His grandson, who published his book, testifies that many of his writings, which
include his "chidushim" and a large treatise on the 316 mitzvas, have been lost.
Siget (Sighetul
Marmatiei)
Rabbi Chananiah Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum, author of the Kedushas Yom Tov, was born on the 6th of Nissan
5596 (1836). He died on the 29th of Shevat 5664 (1904). Upon the death of his father, Rabbi Yekutiel Yehudah of Siget he assumed
his father´s rabbinic position. He too headed the yeshiva in Siget. The two-volume book Kedushas Yom Tov on the Torah
and on the festivals was the only book that remained of his teachings. He had two famous sons - Rabbi Chaim Zvi of Siget and
Rabbi Yoel of Satmar (Satu Mare).
Presburg (Bratislava)
Rabbi Moshe Sofer, the Chasam Sofer,
was born in 5523 (1763) and died on the 28th of Tishri 5600 (1840). He was one the greatest Jewish scholars living in the
first half of the 19th century. He was a disciple of Rabbi Nasan Adler, Rabbi of Frankfurt, and the son-in-law (by second
marriage) of Rabbi Akiva Eger. He was appointed rabbi of Presburg (the capital of Slovakia), a large Jewish metropolis, and
retained this position throughout his life.
He founded the famous yeshiva in Presburg, which was attended by hundreds
of students. He waged a fierce battle against the Reform movement, which was spreading throughout central and Western Europe,
and stated both in writing as well as orally - that "Chadash Asur min Hatorah" - any innovation is strictly forbidden,
according to the Torah.
He left a legacy of numerous manuscripts, many of which have been published. His important books
include "Chasam Sofer (an acronym for "Chidushei Toras Moshe"), responsa (six volumes), Chasam Sofer Chidushim
al Ha-Shas, Toras Moshe, and commentaries and drashos on the Talmud.
Not long ago, a supreme effort was made to save
his grave from total destruction when the authorities planned to erect a central crossroads for the railway system. Careful
planning left the place intact and it is a fitting site for people to gather together in prayer.
Prague
Rabbi Yehudah Loew - the Maharal of Prague
Born in 5272 (1512) and died on the 18th of Elul 5369 (1609). The
Maharal is engraved in the hearts of the Jewish people and is enveloped in miraculous stories. He was one of the greatest
spiritual giants, original and unique in his thinking and in his commentaries on aggadah.
Some of his famous disciples
include Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller, author of the Tosefos Yom Tov on the Mishnah, Rabbi David Ganz, author of the Tzemach
Sus, and Rabbi Eliyahu Loanz.
He served as rabbi in Mikulov (Nikelsburg), Pozen and Prague. His writings include Gur
Aryeh - a commentary on Rashi, Gevuros Hashem, Derech Chayim, Netivos Olam, Be´er Hagolah, Tiferes Yisrael, Nezach Yisrael,
Or Chadash, Ner Mitzvah, Chidushei Maharal, Chidushei Gur Aryeh, Sefer Perushei Maharal MiPrague le-Aggadot Ha-Shas and drashos.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE JEWS OF HUNGARY
Jews had settled in Hungary as early as the 3rd
century CE, when the area was part of the Roman Empire´s province of Pannonia. Written documents from the 11th century
indicate the existence of Jewish settlement and the creation of Jewish communities in the nascent Hungarian state. Increasingly,
Jews settled in the towns, leading to the emergence of the "historical Jewish communities" of Buda, Esztergom, Sopron,
Tata and Old Buda.
In the 16th-17th centuries, Hungary was occupied by the Turks. Following the expulsion of the Turks,
the re-settlement of the devastated country began. Along with Germans, Slovaks and others, Jews too arrived in increasing
numbers - first from Bohemia and Moravia, and later also from Galicia, after it had been incorporated into the Monarchy. The
number of Hungarian Jews increased from 20,000 in 1769 to approximately 80,000 in 1787. The period between the two World Wars
was a time of prosperity and accomplishment for Hungarian Jewry. This period saw the emergence of Jewish intellectuals, well-trained
professionals, and merchants, who regarded Hungary as their homeland and had no problems reconciling their Hungarian and Jewish
heritage. Hungarian Jewry played a key role in the creation and development of Hungarian trade and industry. World War II,
German fascism and the reign of terror caused by the Hungarian Arrow-Cross brought unimaginable suffering to Hungarian Jewry.
Six hundred thousand out of nine hundred thousand Hungarian-speaking Jews perished in the Holocaust. Hungarian Jewry has still
not recovered from the losses occasioned by the mass deportations and interment in forced labor camps.
Budapest
through Jewish Eyes
Learn about Central Europe´s largest Jewish Community, walk through the former Ghetto,
visit the Dohany Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, the Kazinczy Orthodox Shul and "see" the city´s hidden Jewish
treasures. 29/38.- Budapest, Synagogue
This is Europe´s largest synagogue, with capacity for seating a congregation
of 3,000. Next to the synagogue is the Jewish Museum (which houses a Holocaust memorial room) and the Hall of Heroes (with
the Monument of Hungarian Jewish Martyrs). The two towers that you see are 43 meters high. Special concerts are held in the
synagogue on weekdays.
Kazinczy Street - Dob Street: The Orthodox Jewish Quarter of Budapest.
Among
the other synagogues in Budapest, this building on Kazinczy Street and Dob Street reminds us of a typical European synagogue.
The most important institutes are located around the Synagogue.
In the middle of the courtyard you can find the building
of the Kazinczy Synagogue. In the front of the courtyard stands an iron Chuppah. Around it are the kindergarten, the Hanna
kosher community kitchen, the Sasz-Chevra Synagogue, and the Bet Hamidrash. From the Dob street side there is the butcher´s
and the community office, the Chevra Kadisha, and the Cultural Center. Just a few steps outside the courtyard, still on Kazinczy
Street, you can find the bakery. and further on - the mikve.
The Kaziczy Synagogue was built in 1912-13 by the Loffler
Brothers.
Budapest
Rabbi Yaakov Koppel Reich was born in Verbe in 5588 (1838), and died on the
17th of Elul 5689 (1929). In 1890 he was elected rabbi of the Orthodox community in Budapest, was actively engaged in strengthening
religion and established the Toras Emes School. In addition to his Talmudic erudition, he was involved in matters of society
and was considered one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Hungary. In 1905 he presided over the Convention of Orthodox Rabbis
and Community Leaders. In 1927, at the age of 90, he was appointed Orthodox representative to the upper house of the Hungarian
Parliament, and was its most elderly member.
He left no works, but was widely quoted by rabbis of his generation.
Rabbi
Shimon Oppenheim was born in 5511 (1751) and died in 5611 (1851) at the age of 100. He served as rabbi of the Orthodox
community of Budapest for over fifty years. He was known as a wonder worker, and guaranteed that whoever visits his gravesite
and gives charity for his soul, " the All Merciful will hear his cry for help."
Uehal
Rabbi
Moshe Teitlebaum, author of the Yismach Moshe, was born in 5519 (1759) and died on the 28th of Tammuz, 5601 (1841)
in Uehal (Staoraljaujlely). He was the scion of a family of rabbis descended from the great halakhic authority, Rabbi Moshe
Isserlis (the Ramah). He was a disciple of "Hachozeh Mi-Lublin" - the "Seer of Lublin" and the Maggid
of Kozienice. He also studied with his uncle, Rabbi Avraham Aryeh Leib of Strezenov. At the age of twenty-five he was appointed
rabbi of Shineve (Sieniaws), and afterwards served as rabbi of Uehal in Hungary for the rest of his life. He became known
in the Jewish communities of Galicia and Hungary as a wonder-worker, and multitudes of Jews crowded his doorstep to obtain
his blessing. His descendants, as well, were prominent Admorim in Galicia and Hungary.
He was buried in Uehal, and his
grave became a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking help in Hungary and its environs. He was the author of the Yismach Moshe.
Kaliv
Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Taub was born in 5504 (1744) and died in 5581 (1821). He was among
the first rabbis to spread the Hassidic movement in Hungary. At an early age, he was already renowned for his great benevolence,
and was one of the disciples of Rabbi Elimelech of Lisenks. He was buried in Kaliv. During the heyday of Hungarian Jewry,
the 7th of Adar became a day of mass pilgrimage to his gravesite. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and many stories are
told of the wonders that resulted from praying at his grave.
Krestirer (Bodrogkereszur)
Rabbi Yeshaya
Steiner was born in 5612 (1852) and died on the 3rd of Iyar 5685 (1925). He was buried in his city of Krestirer.
He was the faithful assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske (Olaszliszka), and a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz
(Nowy Sacz). Upon the death of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch, he began to be known as a miracle worker and thousands of chassidim flocked
to him, including most of the disciples of his Rabbi. In spite of his greatness, he continued to conduct himself with the
same simplicity as before, and even signed his name as the assistant of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Liske.
His picture with his
signature is said to protect against mice in the home.
Liske (Olaszliszka)
Rabbi Zvi Hirsch Friedman
was born in Iyar 5550 (1790) and died on the 14th of Av 5634 (1874). He was a disciple of Rabbi Moshe Teitlebaum, author of
the Yismach Moshe, and a disciple of Rabbi Zvi Hirsch of Bonyhad. He was also a disciple of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam of Santz,
who gave an enthusiastic approbation to his book Akh Pri Tevu´ah. He was renowned as a Torah giant and a man of noble
character, and was especially renowned for his love of Israel and love of peace. He was the first Admor of the Liske dynasty.
Mishkoltz (Miskolc)
Rabbi Meir Avraham died on the 26th of Elul 5589 (1824). He was the author
of Pri Tzaddik and served as the rabbi of Tashba. He was one of the disciples of the Maggid of Meseritz, and after his death
frequented the "Chozeh of Lublin." His grandson, who published his book, testifies that many of his writings, which
include his "chidushim" and a large treatise on the 316 mitzvas, have been lost.
Siget (Sighetul
Marmatiei)
Rabbi Chananiah Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum, author of the Kedushas Yom Tov, was born on the 6th of Nissan
5596 (1836). He died on the 29th of Shevat 5664 (1904). Upon the death of his father, Rabbi Yekutiel Yehudah of Siget he assumed
his father´s rabbinic position. He too headed the yeshiva in Siget. The two-volume book Kedushas Yom Tov on the Torah
and on the festivals was the only book that remained of his teachings. He had two famous sons - Rabbi Chaim Zvi of Siget and
Rabbi Yoel of Satmar (Satu Mare).
Presburg (Bratislava)
Rabbi Moshe Sofer, the Chasam Sofer,
was born in 5523 (1763) and died on the 28th of Tishri 5600 (1840). He was one the greatest Jewish scholars living in the
first half of the 19th century. He was a disciple of Rabbi Nasan Adler, Rabbi of Frankfurt, and the son-in-law (by second
marriage) of Rabbi Akiva Eger. He was appointed rabbi of Presburg (the capital of Slovakia), a large Jewish metropolis, and
retained this position throughout his life.
He founded the famous yeshiva in Presburg, which was attended by hundreds
of students. He waged a fierce battle against the Reform movement, which was spreading throughout central and Western Europe,
and stated both in writing as well as orally - that "Chadash Asur min Hatorah" - any innovation is strictly forbidden,
according to the Torah.
He left a legacy of numerous manuscripts, many of which have been published. His important books
include "Chasam Sofer (an acronym for "Chidushei Toras Moshe"), responsa (six volumes), Chasam Sofer Chidushim
al Ha-Shas, Toras Moshe, and commentaries and drashos on the Talmud.
Not long ago, a supreme effort was made to save
his grave from total destruction when the authorities planned to erect a central crossroads for the railway system. Careful
planning left the place intact and it is a fitting site for people to gather together in prayer.
Prague
Rabbi Yehudah Loew - the Maharal of Prague
Born in 5272 (1512) and died on the 18th of Elul 5369 (1609). The
Maharal is engraved in the hearts of the Jewish people and is enveloped in miraculous stories. He was one of the greatest
spiritual giants, original and unique in his thinking and in his commentaries on aggadah.
Some of his famous disciples
include Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller, author of the Tosefos Yom Tov on the Mishnah, Rabbi David Ganz, author of the Tzemach
Sus, and Rabbi Eliyahu Loanz.
He served as rabbi in Mikulov (Nikelsburg), Pozen and Prague. His writings include Gur
Aryeh - a commentary on Rashi, Gevuros Hashem, Derech Chayim, Netivos Olam, Be´er Hagolah, Tiferes Yisrael, Nezach Yisrael,
Or Chadash, Ner Mitzvah, Chidushei Maharal, Chidushei Gur Aryeh, Sefer Perushei Maharal MiPrague le-Aggadot Ha-Shas and drashos.
