The Documentary Podcast Heart and Soul: Ladino - Saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language
Feb 23, 2024
Exploring the endangered Ladino language in Thessaloniki, Greece, and efforts to preserve it. Delving into the Sephardic Jewish community's history and resilience in Salonica. Highlighting the challenges and initiatives of preserving Ladino in the face of extinction.
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Sephardic Jews' Refuge and Growth
- Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain in 1492 found refuge in Thessaloniki under the Ottoman Empire.
- They established a strong community that grew to 70,000 people, becoming the city's largest group.
A Love Story of Survival
- During Nazi occupation, two lovers survived by hiding on the island of Evia.
- Their survival story reflects hope and resistance amidst near destruction of Thessaloniki's Jewish community.
Teaching Ladino to Sustain It
- To preserve Ladino, the Jewish community partnered with the Spanish Institute of Cervantes to provide language lessons.
- Teaching Ladino in schools, including non-Jewish children, helps sustain its survival.