Nedim Yahya devoted himself to the preservation and sharing of Turkish-Jewish history. This archive is dedicated to him, and every editorial decision throughout reflects his commitment to accuracy and dignity.
The Quincentennial Foundation
1992 marked the five-hundredth anniversary of the most gracious welcome of the Sephardim to Turkish lands. Turkish Jews felt it was both fitting and proper to launch an extensive celebration — in Türkiye, in the United States, and in Europe.
Jewish history is full of sad events which are marked by commemorations and memorial services. But here was a major event to celebrate: both the 500th anniversary of the welcoming of the Sephardic Jews to the Ottoman Empire, and five centuries of continuous and peaceful life in Türkiye.
“What Turkish Jews lack in numbers they make up in enthusiasm and commitment.”— Naim Güleryüz, Quincentennial Foundation
The Quincentennial Foundation was established in 1989 by a group of 113 Turkish citizens — Jews and Muslims alike. Founded and headquartered in Istanbul, the Foundation planned a three-year (1990–1992) cultural and academic programme both within Türkiye and abroad: principally in the United States, Canada and Mexico on the American continent; and France, the United Kingdom and Italy in Europe.
The Foundation embarked on an ambitious programme befitting the greatness of the occasion. Symposiums, conferences, concerts, exhibitions, films, books, and the restoration of ancient synagogues all formed part of the celebrations. The programme brought the diverse and rich legacy of Turkish Jewry to a broader audience, demonstrating that five centuries of coexistence are possible — and are a model worth sharing with the world.
The Museum of Turkish Jews
Among the most enduring legacies of the Foundation is the Museum of Turkish Jews, established in the restored Zulfaris Synagogue in Karaköy, Istanbul, which opened on November 25, 2001. The museum tells the story of Turkish-Jewish life through exhibits, documents, photographs, religious objects, and reconstructed scenes of community life spanning five centuries.
Visit the Zulfaris Synagogue and Museum page for a full description.
Zulfaris Synagogue & Museum →