Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to travel through Southern Spain, and along the way, I uncovered a rich history that left me both humbled and fascinated. It was a history that, unfortunately, hasn’t always been kind to the Jewish people. Growing up in a neighborhood in New York, I was surrounded by families who were either Jewish or Italian. Most of the Jewish families I knew were Ashkenazi, with roots in Eastern Europe, and I have to admit—I wasn’t particularly aware of the Sephardic Jews or the deep, complex history they share with Spain.
The Sephardic Jews’ story is one of highs and lows—periods of flourishing, followed by intense persecution, yet always marked by an unwavering resilience. Their roots go back to the Roman Empire, but it was during the Islamic Golden Age (711–1492) that the community truly thrived. Jews, Muslims, and Christians coexisted in relative harmony, exchanging ideas and contributing to a cultural blossoming that helped shape science, philosophy, and the arts. It's amazing to think that so much of what we know today—especially in Spain—has Sephardic fingerprints on it.
However, this golden era came to a heartbreaking end in 1492 with the Alhambra Decree, when Jews were forcibly expelled from Spain. Those who didn’t convert to Christianity were driven out, scattering to distant lands such as the Ottoman Empire, North Africa, and other parts of Europe. Many of them kept their Sephardic heritage alive through language, customs, and traditions, with Ladino, the Judeo-Spanish language, being one of the most enduring legacies. Even in the face of harsh discrimination, Sephardic Jews held onto their identities—an act of defiance in itself.
Fast-forward to recent years, and I learned that Spain has been taking steps to make amends for its painful past. In 2015, the Spanish government passed a law that allowed the descendants of expelled Sephardic Jews to apply for citizenship. While the process has been difficult for many, for some, it has brought a sense of closure—perhaps even a chance to come home, in some small way.
Today, Sephardic traditions are still alive and well, especially in music, cuisine, and religious practices. From the distinctive melodies of Sephardic liturgy to the delicious foods like burekas and turrón, these traditions continue to enrich Jewish culture around the world. Even the endangered Ladino language, though spoken by fewer people today, remains an important marker of Sephardic identity and pride.
Reflecting on this history, I’ve come to realize that the story of the Sephardic Jews is one of incredible endurance. Despite centuries of displacement and hardship, they have preserved their culture, their faith, and their sense of belonging. The continued connection between the Sephardic community and Spain—through both triumphs and struggles—is a testament to their strength and unwavering spirit.
As I wandered through the winding streets of Southern Spain, I couldn’t help but feel a deeper appreciation for the Sephardic legacy. It's a reminder that history isn't just something we read about—it’s something that lives on in the stories we carry, the traditions we keep, and the communities we build.