Jewish Life In The Land Of Fire And Ice

OVERVIEW

Explore the capital city of Iceland with a focus on the small community of Jews that live in Reykjavik. A panoramic drive through downtown will provide an intriguing introduction to the Icelandic culture and a walking tour afterwards will add texture to your understanding of the city, the country’s largest. Despite the size of Reykjavik, there are only a few hundred people in the Jewish community. The first Jews were likely traders that arrived in the 1600s, but they didn’t permanently settle in Iceland until centuries later. It wasn’t until 2021 that Judaism was even officially registered as a religion in Iceland. While visiting the Jewish Center of Iceland, you will learn much more about the history of Judaism in Reykjavik, the difficulties that Jews have faced over the years and how life has changed for the positive. The rabbi will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a panoramic drive through Reykjavik, followed by an enlightening walk downtown.
• Learn about the history of Judaism in Iceland and the country’s small population of Jews.
• Meet a rabbi at the Jewish Center of Iceland and enjoy a frank discussion of Jewish life.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.