Embark on an unforgettable journey with us as we explore the rich tapestry of Poland’s history and the enduring legacy of its Jewish community. From June 30 to July 8, 2024, our Poland Personally Study Seminar offers a profound and immersive experience, blending historical exploration with personal reflection.
Highlights of Our Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Poland!
Arrive in Warsaw and settle into the Novotel Warszawa Centrum. This first day is all about acclimating and preparing for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Jewish Life in Warsaw
Discover Warsaw’s Jewish heritage, visiting sites like the Gesia Cemetery and the Emanuel Ringelblum Jewish Historical Institute. Hear the inspiring stories of resistance at the Warsaw Zoo and explore the Nożyk Synagogue.
Day 3: The Warsaw Ghetto
Walk through the remnants of the Warsaw Ghetto, visit the Umschlagplatz Memorial, and pay homage at the Treblinka Memorial.
Day 4: Lublin and Majdanek
Travel to Lublin to visit the Grodzka Gate NN Theater and the Majdanek Concentration Camp, gaining deeper insights into the horrors of the Holocaust.
Day 5: Howard Chandler’s Story
Walk in the footsteps of Holocaust survivor as he shares his personal journey of survival in Wierzbnik-Starachowice. Reflect on the resilience and strength of those who endured such unimaginable hardships.
Day 6: Auschwitz – The Decline of Humanity
Visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz-Birkenau, where the sheer scale of human suffering and loss is overwhelming. Hear firsthand accounts from Howard Chandler, whose courage offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. End the day with a collective reflection in Krakow.
Day 7: Jewish Life in Krakow Before the Holocaust
Explore Krakow’s Jewish quarter, visit the remnants of the Krakow Ghetto, and learn about the historical significance of the Under the Eagle Pharmacy.
Day 8: Wieliczka Salt Mines and Closing Reflections
Discover the wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mines and reflect on post-war events during a stop in Kielce. Conclude with a festive closing dinner near Warsaw, celebrating the friendships forged and the lessons learned.
Day 9: Departure from Poland
Depart from Poland with a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and the enduring legacy of its Jewish community. Carry with you the lessons learned and memories shared during your time in this remarkable country.
This seminar promises not only to educate but also to inspire and provoke thought. Stay tuned for reflections from our participants, who will share their personal experiences and insights from this transformative journey. Their stories will offer a window into the profound impact of visiting these historical sites and understanding the resilience of the human spirit.
Follow our blog for updates and participant reflections as we delve into Poland’s past and its lessons for the future. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with history on a deeply personal level. https://cwbpgh.org/blog/