In honour of one of the greatest Slovenian poets, we celebrate Prešeren’s Day on February 8, commemorating the poet’s life and work. On this day, Slovenian museums, galleries and cultural institutes, in the desire to bring cultural and artistic creation closer to the widest possible number of visitors, open the doors of their institutions wide open.

The Center of Jewish Cultural Heritage Synagogue Maribor is also joining the celebration of the Slovenian cultural holiday, which will be open on 8 February from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. As part of the open doors day, it will be possible to independently view the former medieval synagogue and the current documentary exhibition They risked their lives: Poles who saved Jews during the Holocaust, and we will also prepare some events for visitors.

At 10 a.m., we will provide expert guidance through the exhibition They risked their lives: Poles who saved Jews during the Holocaust. The exhibition tells the stories of Polish Righteous Among the Nations who helped Jews in occupied Poland during World War II.

At 11 a.m., we cordially invite you to the presentation of the collection Porajmos – the silenced genocide against the Roma. It will be presented by the editors dr. Vera Klopčič and Marjetka Bedrač, and we will also be joined by some of the authors of the contributions, among them dr. Marjan Toš, dr. Filip Škiljan and Sandi Horvat, who will also coordinate the event.

At 1 p.m., we will prepare a pedagogical workshop for preschool and elementary school children on the topic of tu b’ševat – the new year of trees. Children will learn about the Jewish holiday tu b’shevat and the associated customs and traditions of children in Israel. The presentation will be followed by a creative workshop.

All events are free.