Jewish Life and Culture in Venice and Italy

The fascinating world of medieval Hebrew manuscripts and what they tell us about intellectual life and culture in Italy and beyond.

The Chief Rabbi of Venice's attempt to permit gondola travel on Shabbat. The life and times of Rabbi Simone Luzzatto, 1583–1663.

Less than a year before the passing of the former, in 1746, the latter was born. The most famous works of both of these greats have become the mainstay of contemporary Jewish spiritual movements, and there are many fascinating similarities and differences between them.

The treasured Valmadonna Library, the greatest private collection of Hebrew books and manuscripts in private hands in the world, includes almost five hundred titles published in 16th century Venice.

Surviving documents, including marriage documents, offer fascinating windows into the ghetto's history and the lives of its dwellers.