Today was the first day for the Classrooms Without Borders cohort’s Germany Close Up Fellowship. Our group of over two dozen Jewish young professionals from all over the United States and Canada have gathered in Munich to begin our journey, reflecting an incredibly diverse set of backgrounds.
This morning’s first activity was a group welcome and introduction with the trip leaders and our German peers. Our group began getting to know each other after an icebreaker and a briefing on our busy, action-packed week in Germany.
After, we enjoyed a delicious lunch and more conversation at Restaurant Einstein, inside the Ohel Jakob Synagogue complex. This restaurant is one of the few local options serving kosher dishes.
Nothing helps jet lag like lasagna.
We continued our synagogue visit by sitting down with the congregation’s rabbi for a discussion on the history of the congregation and the building, as well as details on the Jewish community here in Munich. Inside the synagogue is a memorial to over 4,000 Jewish residents of Munich who were murdered during the Holocaust.
The Holocaust memorial inside the synagogue.
The exterior of Ohel Jakob Synagogue.
Later, we gathered with a local guide for a walking tour of Munich’s Old Town. This historic area has been at the heart of the city’s history for centuries, and the Jewish community has been a vital part of this history.
Food and drink continued to come up as topic of local history. During one stop near a Biergarten (beer garden), our guide explained the local history of this German tradition. At some point in the 19th century, many beer gardens began allowing customers to bring their own food. This change led to an increase in Jewish patrons as they could bring along their own kosher meals or snacks. Additionally, a series of Jewish-owned breweries opened over time.
One of Munich’s many beer gardens.
Other stops on the tour included Marienplatz, at the heart of Old Town, and the city hall. Much of Munich’s history is focused on the city’s emerging role as the heart of Bavaria—including the former monarchy and later, a short-lived free state. Additionally, the city is a major hub and contributor to Germany’s research, business, and political influence worldwide.
Marienplatz.
To wrap up a busy first day, our group enjoyed a wonderful vegan dinner outside at Kaiser Otto. The perfect way to end a beautiful summer day exploring a new place with new friends and colleagues.
Dinner at Kaiser Otto.