Celebrating 20 Years of Preserving jewish Heritage in Europe
The European Association for the Preservation of Jewish Heritage (APEJ) recently marked a momentous milestone – its 20th anniversary. The festivity, held at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg under the auspices of the Luxembourg Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, underscored the unwavering commitment to protecting and sharing the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage across Europe.
Founded in 2003, the APEJ is dedicated to safeguarding Jewish heritage sites and cultural traditions throughout the continent. This vital work ensures these invaluable past treasures are not forgotten,acting as a bridge to shared history and fostering cultural understanding.
“Over these two decades, we’ve built bridges between cultures and generations, from Spain to Poland, from Italy to Lithuania – across the European continent,” said APEJ President François Moyse.”This anniversary is more than just a celebration; it’s a recognition of the collective efforts made to preserve and promote Jewish heritage as an integral part of European culture and our shared history.”
Luxembourg’s Minister of Culture, Eric Thill, emphasized the importance of cultural memory, especially in times when democratic values face growing threats. “The work of the APEJ is an outstanding example,” he stated, “putting Jewish heritage at the center of actions, contributing not only to the preservation of our shared history, but also to the promotion of tolerance and mutual respect.”
The anniversary celebration served as a testament to the APEJ’s impact. Bjørn Berge, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe, lauded the institution’s work in fostering intercultural dialogue and understanding through its European Route of Jewish Heritage, which now encompasses members from 24 European countries. “This association has done exceptional work to preserve and promote Jewish culture,” he declared.”Not only has it kept it alive, but it has also renewed and reinvigorated it. This is exactly what the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe were established for.”
The event included a captivating roundtable discussion on Medieval Jewish Heritage in Europe, led by renowned experts who delved into the rich historical context of this fascinating period. Additional activities brought the vibrancy and depth of Jewish culture to life, offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience its multifaceted expressions.
what Role Does Technology play in Preserving Jewish Heritage for Future Generations?
Celebrating 20 Years of Preserving Jewish Heritage in Europe: An Interview with APEJ President François Moyse
the European Association for the Preservation of Jewish heritage (APEJ) recently celebrated a momentous milestone: its 20th anniversary. Held under the auspices of the Luxembourg Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, the celebration took place at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, highlighting the unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage across Europe. Archyde had the opportunity to speak with APEJ President François Moyse about this significant anniversary, the institution’s achievements, and the future of preserving Jewish heritage.
Archyde: Congratulations on reaching this notable milestone! looking back on 20 years, what are you most proud of?
François Moyse: Thank you! Over these two decades, we’ve built bridges between cultures and generations, from Spain to Poland, from Italy to Lithuania – across the European continent.Our network has grown, our initiatives have expanded, and most importantly, we’ve seen a renewed thankfulness for Jewish heritage.
Preserving Europe’s Rich Jewish Tapestry
The European Route of Jewish Heritage is more than just a network of historical sites; it’s a powerful symbol of shared European identity and a testament to the enduring strength of cultural memory.This remarkable initiative, spearheaded by the Association of European Jewish Museums (APEJ), has transformed the landscape of cultural tourism, connecting 24 European countries under a common banner.
“the European Route of Jewish Heritage has truly transformed the landscape of cultural tourism,” shares François Moyse, emphasizing the collaborative spirit behind this endeavor. “It’s a platform to showcase the diverse expressions of jewish culture, history, and architecture, fostering intercultural dialogue and understanding.”
But in today’s world, grappling with rising intolerance and threats to democratic values, the importance of preserving cultural memory, notably Jewish heritage, is paramount. As Moyse emphasizes, “Cultural memory is essential. Preserving Jewish heritage is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about safeguarding stories, traditions, and values that contribute to the richness and complexity of our shared European identity. By understanding the past,we can build a more tolerant and inclusive future.”
While the challenges facing the APEJ are real, Moyse sees boundless opportunities. He highlights the transformative power of technology: “Technology can play a transformative role in bringing Jewish heritage to life, connecting people across generations and borders.” He also stresses the importance of engaging younger generations, inspiring them to become stewards of this heritage.
Looking ahead,Moyse challenges each individual to contribute,regardless of the size of their action. “Every individual has a role to play.Whether it’s visiting a Jewish heritage site, learning about Jewish history and culture, or supporting organizations like APEJ, every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that Jewish heritage continues to thrive and inspire future generations.”
How is the APEJ utilizing digital archives to make historical Jewish documents and records more accessible to the public?
Celebrating 20 Years of Preserving Jewish Heritage in europe: An Interview with APEJ President François Moyse
The European Association for the Preservation of Jewish Heritage (APEJ) recently celebrated a momentous milestone: its 20th anniversary. Held under the auspices of the Luxembourg Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, the celebration took place at the Council of europe in Strasbourg, highlighting the unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage across Europe. Archyde had the opportunity to speak with APEJ President François Moyse about this meaningful anniversary, the institution’s achievements, and the future of preserving Jewish heritage.
Archyde: Congratulations on reaching this notable milestone! Looking back on 20 years, what are you most proud of?
françois Moyse: Thank you! Over these two decades, we’ve built bridges between cultures and generations, from Spain to poland, from Italy to Lithuania – across the european continent. Our network has grown, our initiatives have expanded, and most importantly, we’ve seen a renewed thankfulness for Jewish heritage.
What Role Does Technology Play in Preserving jewish Heritage for Future Generations?
Archyde: The digital world is constantly evolving.How is the APEJ leveraging technology to preserve and promote Jewish heritage for future generations?
François Moyse: Technology offers us amazing opportunities! We’re using digital archives to make historical documents and records accessible to a wider audience. We’re creating virtual tours of Jewish heritage sites, allowing people to experience them from anywhere in the world. And we’re using social media to connect with younger generations and engage them in learning about Jewish history and culture. By embracing these tools, we can ensure that Jewish heritage remains relevant and inspiring for generations to come.
Archyde: What role can ordinary people play in this vital work?
François Moyse: Everyone can contribute! Sharing stories, visiting heritage sites, supporting organizations like ours, even learning a few words in Hebrew or Yiddish – these small acts make a big difference.We all have a obligation to preserve our shared cultural heritage, and together, we can ensure that Jewish history and culture continue to thrive.
