HANUKKAH/SOUTHERN ITALY – A menorah illuminates the historical ancient synagogue of Bova Marina

The remains of the Bova Marina synagogue, dating back to the 4th century, stand as a testament to the ancient history and legacy of Judaism in the Calabria region. The light of Hanukkah illuminated these historic grounds, thanks to an initiative organized by local representative Roque Pugliese, in collaboration with the Union of Italian Jewish Communities (UCEI) and the Jewish Community of Naples.
UCEI Vice President Giulio Disegni emphasized the significance of the site: “UCEI is present in Calabria with the Palmi section of the Jewish Community of Naples. Thanks to the dedication and passion of a few, we are reviving an ancient tradition that, while uprooted centuries ago, has never truly been lost.” Disegni described the Bova Marina synagogue as “a symbol of continuity and an awareness of diversity as a source of richness, integral to the fabric of a truly civil society.”
He further reflected on the holiday’s broader message: “The warmth of the Hanukkah flames, combined with the memory of the Maccabean struggle, invites us to come together, to engage in dialogue, and to reflect—particularly in a time when certain values are being upended, and antisemitism and hatred is spreading worldwide, the likes of which we haven’t seen in decades.”

Hanukkah lights in Manduria
The light of Hanukkah also reached the town of Manduria, in the province of Taranto, where a diverse group gathered around a menorah in a private home. Among those present were Israelis, French nationals, and even a Swede.
For UCEI Vice President Giulio Disegni, the event highlights a promising opportunity: “The idea of establishing a section in Puglia, in the Taranto-Manduria area, is gaining momentum.”