By Julie Gordon, Community Planning Manager 

November 2024, 17 young adults from San Diego embarked on a transformative journey to explore Jewish life in Italy through Federation’s partnership with JDC Entwine. This immersive week brought together participants for meaningful connections, cultural discovery, and community-building. 

Connecting with Jewish Florence 

Upon arriving in Italy, we were warmly greeted by JDC Entwine staff and began with a meaningful conversation about Kavannah (intention), setting personal and collective goals for the week ahead. Our first exploration took us to the Florence Synagogue, a stunning landmark that has been the “beating heart” of the city’s Jewish community since 1882. Within its walls, we discovered the Jewish Museum and a Holocaust Memorial, honoring Florence’s Jewish victims and offering a powerful reminder of the community’s enduring resilience. 

As we walked through Florence’s historic streets, the city’s charm revealed itself in its stunning architecture and rich culture. Landmarks like the Church of Santa Maria Novella, Palazzo Strozzi, the Duomo, and the Uffizi Gallery offered a glimpse into Florence’s layered history. That evening, our group came together for a lively pasta-making workshop hosted by Chabad of Florence. Rolling dough, sharing stories, and enjoying the meal we created brought a sense of warmth and connection that set the tone for the days ahead. 

Exploring Chianti and Siena 

Our day trip to Chianti and Siena was a perfect blend of history, culture, and connection. At the Monteriggioni Fortress, built in 1213, we wandered through its ancient walls, where traces of medieval life mix with modern touches like small shops and cafés. In Siena, we visited an 18th-century synagogue undergoing restoration after a 2023 earthquake, a powerful reminder of the resilience of Jewish heritage. One of the most memorable moments was meeting David, a local medical school graduate, who shared stories about growing up in Italy and being part of its small but vibrant Jewish community. The day ended with a wine tasting at Villa Mangiacane Winery, where we reflected on the journey and enjoyed the flavors of Tuscany before heading back to Florence. 

Jewish Rome and the Vatican 

Traveling to Rome by high-speed train, we began with a meaningful conversation on