Jewish history

Our class visited the Great Synagogue of Rome this morning to learn more about the Jewish history of Italy. The Jews have actually migrated to Italy around 161 B.C.E. (Before Common Era) and served as ambassadors from their homeland. After the Romans invaded Judea around 63 B.C.E., Jewish prisoners of war were taken back to Italy as slaves. Our tour guide allowed us to sit in the seats of the synagogue and observe its indoor architecture. However, all of the guys were required to wear a yarmulke, which is a thin cap that is worn on the top of the head. Unfortunately, due to security reasons, we were not allowed to take pictures or video inside the temple. And if we were caught in the act, we had to delete the footage on the spot…

We also toured the alleyways of the Jewish ghettos in Portico d'Ottavia. This was the place where many of the Jews in Rome have scattered in hiding during World War II. Many of the buildings looked dilapidated at its current state as compared to other buildings in Rome.  We also visited a couple of Jewish sites that were places of terrorist attacks before we left the district. Overall, it was an interesting morning; my perceptions of the Jewish faith were significantly broadened.

Exploring the alleys of the Jewish ghettos.