Ottoman Salonica, 1430 - 1912

Ottoman Salonica, 1430 -1912 is a 25-minute documentary which relates the history of the ancient Macedonian city of Salonica, and the rich culture of the Sephardic Jewish community that flourished there for nearly five centuries under Ottoman rule. Ottoman Salonica vividly recreates the distinctive character of Salonica, when the Spanish Jews dominated both the city's commerce and cultural activity.

The history of Sephardic life in Salonica until the Balkan Wars of 1912 and the fall of European Turkey, is recreated by use of historic etchings, maps and more than 250 rare archival photographs from turn-of-the-century postcards and family albums. The sound track was prepared from authentic Sephardic and Turkish music, and includes specially recreated sound effects and authentic dialects. Below are some video captures from Ottoman Salonica.


"It is a wonderful visual introduction to a city that occupies a special
role in Jewish history. Through a combination of skillful photography,
excellent research incorporated into its narrative and a fine selection of
background music you've produced an excellent educational tool that can be
used in classrooms and adult education settings. Most of all, you've
retrieved a bit of that marvelous place that holds a lustrous place in
Jewish history!"

--Dr. Jane Gerber, Professor of Jewish History, City University
of New York Graduate Center, author of The Jews of Spain

Ottoman Salonica was written and directed by Robert Bedford, and narrated by Dr. Andreas Zavitsas. It was produced by Robert Bedford, Joe Halio, M.D., and Stuart Fishelson, for the Foundation for the Advancement of Sephardic Studies and Culture. Originally produced for the quincentennial celebration in 1992, Ottoman Salonica has had numerous showings throughout New York New Jersey, and Florida.

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