Did you know that Strasbourg has a rich and often little-known Jewish history dating back to the 11th century? For lovers of culture and heritage, the Strasbourg Tourist Office has just launched a fascinating audio tour that plunges us into Jewish life in Strasbourg through the ages. This multilingual tour takes us through the city's emblematic districts, revealing centuries-old traditions and key figures who have shaped Strasbourg's cultural landscape.
A little-known but essential history
The history of Judaism in Alsace is a key chapter in our regional heritage. On the eve of the French Revolution, more than half of France's 40,000 Jews lived in Alsace. Just imagine: in the 19th century, there were no fewer than 176 synagogues in Alsace, out of around 250 in the whole country. This shows just how central Alsatian Judaism was to the multicultural richness of our region.
A journey through time and neighbourhoods
The audio tour takes you through seventeen of Strasbourg's most emblematic sites. We start in the old Rue des Juifs district, with its ritual bath, then discover the cathedral and its Jewish figures. One of the highlights of the tour is undoubtedly the virtual visit to the former synagogue on Quai Kléber, which was unfortunately destroyed by the Nazis in 1940. Each stage of the tour tells a story, often a moving one, of the Jewish presence in Strasbourg despite the tumult of history.
A tour with a free audio guide
The Izi Travel application provides free access to audio commentaries and written versions of the tour in several languages. An interactive map and archive photos enhance the experience, making it easy to find your way around and visualise the sites that have disappeared.
What makes this tour so unique is its ability to make history accessible and engaging. Available in five languages (French, German, English, Spanish and Italian) and in text, including Hebrew, it is aimed at everyone. The commentaries are lively and full of anecdotes, making the visit as informative as it is enjoyable. And the best part? It's free! So why not take advantage of it on your next stroll through the city?
