Menorah

Jews as an ethnic and religious community came to Bosnia and Herzegovina after the prosecution from Spain in the late 15th century, when they came seeking refuge in Bosnia (then part of Ottoman Empire). They are mainly engaged in crafts and trades. The Jewish community survived to this day, although in small numbers.

Religion and tradition have an important place in the lives of Jews. Hanukkah is among the major Jewish holidays. It takes eight days and nights, and celebrates the re-dedication of Temple in Jerusalem, which the Maccabees defended by the Greeks in the second century. An important part of the celebration of Hanukkah is the kindling of nine-branched candleabra (menorah) in remembrance of re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Menorah has eight candle holders. The ninth holder is called the Shamash, and is used to light the other candles. Every night during the Hanukkah it lights up one candle. On the first night candle on the far right is placed and lit, and then the remaining candles are lit in sequence from left to right, until the last night of Hanukkah.

This menorah is a legacy of the Jews who for centuries lived and worked in this city, contributing to its multiculturalism, and development.