With the encouragement & support of the Matanel Foundation

2026

Sephardic Studies in Barcelona,

International Summer Program 2026

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.

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 1st – June 26th, 2026)

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.

Please visit our faculty page.

View the 2025 edition

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

Please access the application form, which provides detailed information about the program, registration options, scholarships, and more.
Fill in the required details on the form and submit your application

Applications reviewed in order received. Early submission recommended.

Appication Form

F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will probably find the answer to your question here.

If not, please contact us directly
via e-mail info.ejbarcelona@gmail.com

How does the admission process work?

The first step is to fill in the online application form on the Seminar webpage: www.ejbarcelona.org/the-sefarad-seminar. Prospective candidates will be invited to an online interview. The Seminar staff will then review the applications and notify the applicants about the results. Please note: •Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Early submission is recommended to increase your chances of acceptance. •Priority in acceptance will be given to those enrolling for the entire program.

Is there an age limit for acceptance?

No, there is no age limit.

Do I need any Hebrew knowledge?

No, previous Hebrew knowledge is not required.

Do I need proof of English proficiency?

No language certificate is required, but an assessment will be done during the interview process.

Where will the classes take place?

The seminar classes will be held at "Casa Adret," located in the heart of Barcelona's historic Jewish Quarter, at 6 Salomón Ben Adret Street. This area is known as the "Gótico" – the Gothic Quarter, in the Old City or City Center of Barcelona.

What about accommodation in Barcelona?

Barcelona offers a wide range of options at various standards and prices, all available online. Options worth considering: •Student Residence (Residencia de Estudiantes) in Barcelona: Offers affordable, furnished housing with communal spaces for students and professors. •Co-Living: Barcelona offers shared living spaces, typically rooms in large, beautiful apartments, providing affordable accommodation and a collaborative environment for students and young professionals. Please see online: Coliving Barcelona. •Mid-term apartment: The mid-term rental market – from a month onward – is also well-developed in Barcelona. An online search for 'mid-term rentals Barcelona' will provide plenty of relevant options. We would be happy to provide guidance and suggest potential solutions for students admitted to the program.

What trips or field excursions are planned as part of the seminar?

As part of the seminar program, there will be educational tours within the urban area of Barcelona, as well as a three-day, two-night Heritage Journey along the “European Route of Jewish Heritage” – Catalunya: Barcelona, Girona, Besalú, Pyrenees, and Port Bou (2/6, 9/6, 16–18/6). All travel and accommodation costs are included in the program fees.

Do I need a visa?

No visa is required for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, or for students from the U.S., Latin America, or Israel for stays of up to 90 days, as long as their passport is valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay. It is recommended for students from other countries to check with their local Spanish consulate.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

If a participant cancels more than 28 days before the start of the Seminar, they will receive a 50% refund of the tuition fee, minus a €100 administrative fee. Cancellations within 28 days of or during the Seminar are non-refundable.