2027
Sephardic Studies in Barcelona,
International Summer Program 2027
The Institute for Jewish Studies Barcelona (EJB) is delighted to announce its 2026 edition of the Matanel Sefarad Seminar, a groundbreaking academic and cultural program dedicated to exploring the rich and multifaceted heritage of Sephardic Jewish civilization.
From its golden age in medieval Spain to its vibrant contemporary expressions across the globe, this seminar offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage deeply with Sephardic history, thought, and culture.
2027 Program will be available very soon
Program Overview
The Matanel Sefarad Seminar is designed for students, educators, professionals in cultural / Jewish heritage and activists, and anyone passionate about gaining a comprehensive understanding of Sephardic heritage and its modern-day challenges. Hosted in the historic Jewish quarter of Barcelona and featuring a traveling campus Spain on the “European Routes of Jewish Heritage” - Catalunya, the program combines rigorous academic study with immersive cultural experiences.
Over 4 intensive weeks (June 6th – July 2nd, 2027)
Textual studies
Textual studies of Sephardic masterpieces in philosophy, theology, poetry, and Kabbalah.
Field excursions
Field excursions to key historical sites in Catalunya (Barcelona, Girona, Besalú, Pyrenees, Port Bou).
Practical workshops
Practical workshops on Sephardic arts, music, cuisine, and cultural activism.
Interdisciplinary lectures
Interdisciplinary lectures led by renowned scholars and cultural leaders.
The seminar also provides a platform for participants to develop their own Passion Projects in research, education, or cultural activism, supported by personalized mentoring and leadership training.
Curriculum Highlights
1
Sephardi History & Society
From medieval Jewish Iberia to the Expulsion and beyond.
2
Sephardi Thought & Philosophy
A journey through Sephardic intellectual history, from Yehudah Halevi to contemporary thinkers.
3
Sephardi Cultural Heritage
Exploring the cultural legacy of Sephardic communities.
4
Sephardi Culture & Art
From medieval crafts to contemporary cinema, music, and cuisine.
Academic Accreditation
The seminar is designed to lay the foundation for a future Master’s degree in Jewish Studies/Jewish Education.
Faculty
Led by a faculty of renowned international scholars , the Matanel Sefarad Seminar offers access to the forefront of contemporary Sephardic thought and research. Our professors are experts in their fields, offering students a rare opportunity to learn from and engage with leading voices in Sephardic studies.
For who?
-
Postgraduate students from all disciplines.
-
Educators in formal or informal settings.
-
Professional in cultural / Jewish Heritage.
-
Cultural and social activists.
-
Applicants must have a good command of the English language.
-
Those passionate about Jewish studies and Sephardic culture.
Registration, Fees, and Scholarships
The Matanel Sefarad Seminar offers 2 registration choices:
-
Full Program (4 Weeks): Includes all courses, field excursions, workshops, and mentoring sessions.
-
Partial Program (Individual Weeks): Participants may enroll in specific weeks, subject to availability.
Program Fees
-
Full Program (4 Weeks): Full Scholarships available.
-
Partial Program (Per Week): €700.
Fees cover tuition, course materials, field excursions, and select cultural activities.
Accommodation and travel expenses are not included.
Scholarships*
Full and partial tuitions scholarships are available for students enrolling in the full four-week program.
* Scholarship applications are submitted directly through the application form.
How to Apply
-
Access the application form for detailed information about the program, registration options, scholarships, and more.
-
Complete the required fields and submit your application.
Application deadline April 25, 2027
Applications will be reviewed by the seminar’s selection committee. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview before final admission decisions are made. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by email.
More from the Matanel Sefarad Seminar:
