Call for Applications
The Sefarad Seminar, Sephardic Studies in Barcelona, International Summer Program 2025
Deadline for applications:
Friday, 25 April 2025 (11:59 pm, GMT+1)
The Institute for Jewish Studies Barcelona (EJB) is delighted to announce the inaugural cycle 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, cultural 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 across Spain (following the “European Routes of Jewish Heritage”: Catalunya-2025 / Al-Andalus-2026), the program combines rigorous academic study with immersive cultural experiences.
Over 6 intensive weeks (June 2 – July 11, 2025)
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 Urban Heritage
Exploring the cultural and architectural legacy of Sephardic communities.
4
Sephardi Diaspora
Mapping the global dispersion of Sephardic Jews and their cultural contributions.
5
Sephardi Culture & Art
From medieval crafts to modern cinema, music, and cuisine.
6
Passion Project Development
Workshops and mentoring to bring your ideas to life.
Academic Accreditation
The seminar is designed to lay the foundation for a future Master’s degree in Jewish Studies/Jewish Education, with the current curriculum equivalent to 30 ECTS.
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?
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Postgraduate students from all disciplines.
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Educators in formal or informal settings, cultural activists, and professionals.
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Applicants must have a good command of the English language.
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Those passionate about Jewish studies and Sephardic culture.
Registration, Fees, and Scholarships
The Matanel Sefarad Seminar offers 2 registration choices:
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Full Program (6 Weeks): Includes all courses, field excursions, workshops, and mentoring sessions.
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Partial Program (Individual Weeks): Participants may enroll in specific weeks, subject to availability.
Program Fees
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Full Program (6 Weeks): €2,700 - Scholarships available.
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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 six-week program.
* Scholarship applications are submitted directly through the application form.
How to Apply
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Please access the application form, which provides detailed information about the program, registration options, scholarships, and more.
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Fill in the required details on the form and submit your application
Deadline for Applications: April 25th
Applications reviewed in order received. Early submission recommended.
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