The synagogue remained active even during the Second World War, when the city was under Italian rule. The Italian authorities displayed a more tolerant attitude towards Jews, allowing them to conduct and participate in rituals at the synagogue within the limited scope of their movement. Although the synagogue suffered damage during the war, it was reconstructed, despite the small number of remaining community members in the city.
During the Homeland War, the synagogue sustained significant damage, but efforts were made to restore it. However, prior to the outbreak of the war, a portion of Judaica was stolen, leading members of the Jewish Municipality of Dubrovnik to engage in a legal battle to reclaim it.
Watch the testimony of Mirjam Ferera about what happened to the Judaica.
Why do you think the preservation of Jewish heritage and Judaica is important for the city of Dubrovnik today?