Welcome to the breathtaking shores of the Adriatic Sea!
Today, Croatia and Montenegro are world-famous for their turquoise waters, stone towns, and green islands. But behind this famous postcard beauty lies a deep, rich, and truly unique Jewish story.

Although modern local communities are small, they are vibrant and deeply proud of their traditions. On this virtual tour, we will walk through ancient stone alleys, step inside historic Synagogues, and meet the vibrant cultures, both Ashkenazi and Sephardic, that have shaped this region from Roman times all the way to today.

Part 1: The Iconic Cities of Croatia — Zagreb, Split & Dubrovnik
We will begin our journey along the Adriatic coast, exploring two of Croatia's most remarkable historical gems:

• Split: An extraordinary city where daily life still flows right inside a Roman Emperor’s palace! Hidden within these ancient imperial walls, you’ll find the old Jewish quarter and its remarkable 16th-century synagogue.

• Dubrovnik: Famous for its majestic fortifications. Tucked inside the stone streets of the old city is the second-oldest active synagogue in Europe, alongside a wonderful collection of historical treasures.

• Vibrant Zagreb: The dynamic capital where Jewish life began as early as the 10th century. We’ll look at how the Ashkenazi community grew here, built an extraordinary cultural life, and how local Jews continue to care for their heritage today.

• Flavors, Music & Traditions: Along the way, we’ll dive into the unique daily life of Croatian Jews—from rich Central European and Mediterranean recipes to local musical traditions that blended Jewish melodies with coastal songs.

Part 2: Montenegro & The Sephardic Legacy
Next we cross the border into Montenegro to uncover new chapters of regional history:

• The Sephardic Haven in Montenegro: Learn how Iberian Jewish families, searching for a safe home after the exile from Spain and Portugal, found refuge along these coastal trade routes and built close-knit communities.

• The Mystery of Sabbatai Zevi: We will explore the strange story of the famous 17th-century figure who claimed to be the Messiah. Exiled by the Ottoman authorities, he spent his final years in the coastal town of Ulcinj. What brought him to this remote corner of the Adriatic, and where is his final resting place?

• Memory & Modern Renewal: We will pay honor to the WWII years and the legacy of the Holocaust in the region, while also discovering the inspiring rebirth of local Jewish life today—from new synagogues to growing, active communities welcoming guests from around the world.

As always, my tour is filled with colorful photos, rich details, and warm personal stories. Grab a fresh cup of tea, relax, and let's explore the Adriatic together!