On December 16, fourteen Yeshivah of Flatbush students along with Mrs.Wielgus and Rabbi Benlulu, set off for the trip of a lifetime - Yeshivah of Flatbush's first ever Sephardic Heritage trip to Spain and Portugal. We spent an incredible week exploring the rich and fascinating culture and history of Sephardic Jewry. We toured palaces and synagogues, archeological excavations, a medieval village with a still- existing Marrano population, and museums. We also had the opportunity to interact with Jewish teenagers from Madrid who graciously hosted us for a Shabbat meal in their synagogue. Our fabulous guides throughout the trip brought the triumphs and tragedies of Sephardic Jewry to life- we saw how Iberian Jewry created a dynamic and sophisticated civilization and how that civilization was destroyed in the Expulsion and Inquisition. We also got a taste of authentic Spanish culture by viewing a flamenco dance performance and walking (and shopping!) through the streets, squares and plazas of some of the most beautiful cities and towns in Europe. All in all, it was an unforgettable week! ~Mrs. Miriam Wielgus
