Situated in the historic centre of Padua and in the area of the old ghetto, the Museum recounts the events and rituals of the Jewish Community of Padua from its origins to the present day. It is located in the first and largest Ashkenazi Synagogue, founded in 1522 and active until May 1943, when it was set on fire by a group of Paduan fascists.
The restoration, which was carried out with the contribution of the Jewish Community and the support of the Veneto Region and the Municipality of Padua, has redelivered a space of great charm, enriched by the imprint of the women's galleries and the 19th-century staircase.
It houses traditional artefacts for family use, such as candelabra, spice holders, Pesach dishes, and objects linked to synagogal rituals, as well as copies of documents testifying to the rich intertwining between Padua and the Jewish Community, present here since the 13th century.
Inside, it is possible to enjoy a multimedia experience thanks to two audiovisual supports. The short and engaging documentary offers a historical overview of the Paduan Community accompanied by the narrative voice of Corrado Augias.
The enveloping video-installation by director Denis Brotto allows visitors to immerse themselves in the lives of ten illustrious personalities: 'Generation Comes, Generation Goes' is the story of the women and men who were part of the Community and represented it.
It is also possible to visit the Italian Synagogue still in use today, embellished with elegant 18th-century furnishings.
