Uncovering the Jewish Heritage: Exploring Worms in Rhineland-Palatinate

Exploring the Jewish Heritage in Southwest Germany

In the southwest of Germany, nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, lies the city of Speyer. With a population of 50,000, Speyer is known for its iconic Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the city's rich history. While Christianity has left a significant mark on Speyer, it is important to note that Judaism has also played a significant role in shaping the city's identity.

During the Middle Ages, Speyer was one of the most important Jewish settlements in Central Europe. Alongside Worms and Mainz, these three cities were even referred to as "Jerusalem on the Rhine." Today, these cities are recognized as the "ShUM" communities, with "ShUM" standing for Speyer, Worms, and Mainz. Together, they are seeking to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their historical and cultural significance.

Exploring Jewish History in Speyer

In the heart of Speyer's old town, visitors will find the Jewish courtyard, home to the Speyer Museum. The museum, also known as the Judenhof, takes its name from the Hebrew name for Speyer, "Spiga." Here, visitors can delve into the city's Jewish past, exploring artifacts and exhibits that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Jewish community. The museum also houses the remains of the medieval synagogue, which dates back to 1104.

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Within the synagogue, visitors can observe the Seating Bänklein, a bench used by women during religious services. Women in synagogues were traditionally situated separately from men, and this bench allowed them to participate in the service by listening through designated slots. Another noteworthy feature is the ritual bath from the 12th century, a poignant reminder of the importance of Jewish customs and practices.

Journeying to Worms: The Holy Sands Cemetery

A short journey from Speyer, about forty minutes away, lies the city of Worms. Here, visitors can explore the Holy Sands Cemetery, a sacred site that reflects the long-standing Jewish presence in the city. The cemetery dates back to the 10th or 11th century, making it one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe.

Managed by the Shoah Theatre Association, the Holy Sands Cemetery is a living memorial to the Jewish community. The sea of tombstones, some of which are covered with notes and stones, represents a collective memory. One particularly notable grave is that of Rabbi Meir von Rothenburg, an esteemed figure in Jewish history. Placing stones on tombstones is a tradition carried out by visitors to honor the memory of the deceased, regardless of personal knowledge of the individual.

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Maintaining Jewish Heritage in Mainz: The New Synagogue

A short distance from Speyer and Worms, visitors can explore Mainz, the final stop on this journey of Jewish heritage. While remnants of the city's Jewish past are scarce, Mainz is home to the New Synagogue, an architectural gem that was inaugurated in 2010.

The New Synagogue stands out for its unique design shaped in the form of the Hebrew word "kedusha," meaning "holiness." The building, an architectural sculpture, reflects the significance of prayers and observance in Jewish culture. The synagogue also incorporates pillars from the old synagogue, which was demolished in 1938, serving as a poignant reminder of Mainz's vibrant Jewish tradition.

The interior of the New Synagogue is awe-inspiring, with gold-colored walls adorned with intricate Hebrew characters. The design extends to the benches, which form the letter "lamed" in Hebrew, symbolizing the letter "L" and alluding to the Torah scrolls containing the five books of Moses. Visitors to the synagogue use a ritual pointer to follow along the lines of the Torah scroll, both out of respect for the holy text and to prevent smudging the vegetable-based ink.

Conclusion

The historical significance and rich cultural heritage of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz are undeniable. These cities provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the Jewish contributions to European history. From the Speyer Museum to the Holy Sands Cemetery in Worms and the New Synagogue in Mainz, each location bears witness to the Jewish communities that thrived in these cities for centuries. By preserving and promoting their Jewish heritage, these cities ensure that the legacy of their vibrant past is celebrated for generations to come.

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