Rabbi Barbara Aiello officiated at the wedding ceremony that marked the first Jewish wedding in Calabria in 500 years, since Inquisition times. The “simcha” reunited Calabrians with their heritage, nearly lost after years of persecution.The beautiful interfaith ceremony combined traditions from both Andy and Lupe’s heritage. Andy read from a prayer book brought from Germany by his Lutheran grandfather, while the Kiddush blessing featured a wine cup (kos Kiddush) given to Lupe by her colleagues for her work as Sisterhood president of her synagogue.
Calabria, characterized by its long sandy beaches, beautiful palm trees and ancient ruins, is one of Italy’s best kept secrets.
Part of those hidden traditions include the fact that Calabria, the region in the deep south or the “toe” of Italy’s boot, was once a center of Jewish thought and culture.
From the ancient castle of King Frederick II which dates back to the year 1000, to the excavation of the synagogue at Bova Marina (4th century CE), Calabria offers an unusually rich glimpse into Italy’s Jewish past. Lamezia Terme and its centro storico (historic center), Nicastro, where the old Jewish Quarter (Timpone) still stands is a perfect setting for a Jewish simcha.
