The Cuban Jewish Community: A Story of Struggle, Survival, and Renewal

Cuba, a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and lush landscapes, offers more than just beauty. Its rich culture, vibrant history, and nostalgic charm make it unique. From Havana’s lively streets to the serene countryside, locals share their love for their country and the US, embracing visitors with warmth and pride. Cuba is a place where time seems to stand still, offering an unforgettable experience.

Havana, Cuba—New York Jewish Travel Guide

Cuba enchants visitors with its vibrant history, art, and energy. In Havana, colonial facades, classic American cars, and salsa rhythms bring the streets to life. Beyond the capital, places like Trinidad, Viñales, and Santiago de Cuba offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From exploring UNESCO sites and enjoying hand-rolled cigars to dancing to Afro-Cuban beats or relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, Cuba blends past and present into an unforgettable experience.

I had the privilege of joining Jewish Heritage Travel on The Jews of Cuba: A Marriage of Culture, an exceptional journey exploring Cuba’s rich Jewish history and culture. What made this experience truly special was the presence of renowned Cuban scholars and experts, who offered unique insights through engaging lectures, discussions, and informal conversations. They brought to life the complex story of Cuba’s Jewish community—its origins, struggles, resilience, and contributions—making this journey both intellectually enriching and deeply moving.

Havana, Cuba—New York Jewish Travel Guide

This journey was extraordinary due to the chance to uncover the often-overlooked Jewish history of Cuba, expertly curated by Miriam Levinson of Jewish Heritage Travel. A native of Cuba, Miriam brought personal expertise and deep connection to the program, offering an intimate look into the resilience, traditions, and contributions of Cuba’s Jewish communities.

Grand Aston, La Habana—New York Jewish Travel Guide

Grand Aston La Habana: A Modern Retreat in Vedado

Opened three years ago in Havana’s Vedado district, Grand Aston La Habana offers stunning Malecón sunset views and modern comforts. The hotel features 600 elegant rooms and suites with plush bedding, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, in-room safes, and minibars. Guests can enjoy an international and local organic breakfast buffet at Vida.

Miriam noted that Grand Aston is one of the few Cuban hotels where Americans can legally stay. Due to US restrictions, most Cuban hotels linked to government entities are blacklisted, but Grand Aston, built after the blacklist was issued, remains a compliant option for US travelers.

The Jewish Journey Through Cuba: Resilience and Heritage

Cuba’s Jewish history is a remarkable tale of survival, dating back to 1492 when Sephardic Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition sought refuge. Among them was Luis de Torres, Columbus’s Jewish translator, marking the first Jewish presence on the island. Many conversos (Crypto-Jews) secretly preserved their faith for generations despite persecution, embedding their traditions within Cuban society. Today, the small yet steadfast Jewish community stands as a testament to endurance, faith, and cultural heritage.

El Patronato (Beth Shalom), New York Jewish Travel Guide

A New Beginning: 20th Century Jewish Migration

In the early 1900s, Jewish immigrants arrived in Cuba, beginning with American Jews who founded Havana’s first congregation in 1904. Ashkenazi Jews from Eastern Europe and Sephardic Jews from the Ottoman Empire followed, many intending to reach the US but remaining due to restrictive immigration laws. By 1924, Cuba’s Jewish population peaked at 24,000, with thriving businesses, synagogues, and aid groups, though divided by cultural identity.

During World War II, Cuba provided limited refuge to Jews. In 1939, the SS St. Louis, carrying over 900 Jewish refugees, was turned away, leading many to perish in the Holocaust. However, some Jews found safety in Cuba, contributing to the community’s growth.

El Patronato (Beth Shalom), New York Jewish Travel Guide

The Cuban Revolution: Exodus and Uncertainty

In 1959, as Fidel Castro’s revolution transformed Cuba, the Jewish population stood at roughly 15,000, mostly in Havana. Initially, some Jews—like many Cubans—welcomed promises of equality, but the rapid nationalization of private businesses devastated Jewish entrepreneurs.

Between 1959 and 1961, about 94% of Cuba’s Jews fled, primarily to the US, with many settling in Miami, New Jersey, and Houston. Those who stayed faced growing restrictions under the Communist regime, where religious practice became increasingly difficult. With synagogues closing and assimilation accelerating, Jewish life dwindled. Cuba’s 1973 break with Israel further isolated the community from the global Jewish world.

By the early 1990s, fewer than 1,500 Jews remained in Cuba, and religious life was nearly extinct. In 1991, Cuba allowed Communist Party members to practice religion openly, triggering a Jewish revival, especially after the Soviet Union’s collapse.

Jewish aid organizations like the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) provided support, helping synagogues reopen, Jewish education restart, and a new generation reconnect with their heritage.

Today, Havana’s Jewish population is about 1,000, with three active synagogues: El Patronato (Beth Shalom): A Conservative synagogue and community hub, Centro Sefardi: Preserving Sephardic traditions.

The sign, written in Spanish, reads: “Let the hostages come home now.” Displayed at El Patronato (Beth Shalom). – New York Jewish Travel Guide

Jewish Cuba Today: Resilience in the Face of Challenges

The Cuban Jewish community remains resilient despite challenges, with Jewish travelers visiting Havana to explore its history and celebrate Shabbat. One memorable experience was attending Friday night services at Beth Shalom, where young congregants brought vibrant energy to the service, singing lively Shabbat melodies.

Chazzan Abel Ashkenazi, along with a recent Bat Mitzvah, led the congregation in both Hebrew and Spanish, creating an inclusive atmosphere. A sudden blackout during Lecha Dodi didn’t interrupt the service, as the congregation continued singing by flashlight, joyfully welcoming Shabbat.

Without a full-time rabbi, the Beth Shalom community has taken responsibility for leading services, infusing the congregation with fresh energy and a deep connection to their heritage.

The Jewish Heritage Travel Group – New York Jewish Travel Guide

For the Jewish Heritage Travel group, we were treated to an unforgettable Shabbat dinner. A beautifully arranged meal with a wide array of dishes, including a full table of fresh salads, a selection of fish for those preferring vegetarian options, potatoes, and a separate table with fruit and chocolate cake filled with rum for dessert. The women led the prayers to welcome Shabbat, and after the traditional washing of the bread, a blessing was recited.

As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere became even more vibrant with a soulful Shabbat song. A talented singer, accompanied by two skilled guitarists, filled the room with harmonious melodies that resonated with all present. The music beautifully complemented the warmth of the gathering, elevating the spiritual ambiance. This unforgettable experience was made possible by Miriam Levinson’s thoughtful planning and dedication, ensuring every guest felt the joy and sanctity of the evening.

“A talented singer, accompanied by two skilled guitarists, fills the air with beautiful shabbat melodies. – New York Jewish Travel Guide”

The surprises didn’t end there—Miriam treated us to salsa lessons and Israeli folk dance, including a spirited hora to the music of Hava Nagila, with everyone joining hands and dancing in a circle. As the evening ended and we made our way out, many of us continued singing the Hebrew melodies, grateful for the beautiful evening crafted by Miriam’s creativity and warm hospitality.

Today, while the Jewish community in Cuba is small, it remains deeply committed to safeguarding its heritage. Synagogues are maintained, holidays are celebrated, and visitors are welcomed to learn about their rich history. Through cultural events, religious services, and educational initiatives, the community ensures that Jewish life in Cuba endures. Support from organizations and Jewish aid groups worldwide reinforces their connection to the global Jewish diaspora.

As long as there are those who preserve, celebrate, and share their heritage, the story of Cuban Jewry will continue to thrive. Their journey is a testament to the enduring strength of Jewish identity, overcoming challenges and adapting through time. Despite centuries of hardship, one truth remains steadfast: Am Yisrael Chai—the Jewish people live on.

For more information:

Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide and New York Jewish Guide.

This unforgettable journey was graciously hosted by The Jewish Heritage Travel, with heartfelt thanks to Luis Arteaga and Miriam Levinson for organizing such a remarkable and unique experience.

A special thanks to Vickie Prince for her knowledgeable and engaging guiding, bringing Havana’s hidden gems and history to life with her insights and enthusiasm.

For details on upcoming trips and to request a travel brochure, contact The Jewish Heritage Travel at https://jhtravel.org/ or call 1.845.256.0197.