Arkadaş - The Turkish Community in Israel

ARKADAŞ was established in order to bring together Jewish Turkish descendants living in Israel and to preserve our culture and heritage. The state of Israel had absorbed Aliya (Immigration to Israel) from countries around the world. One of the most quiet and distinguished Aliyas that Israel has had the privilege of having is the Aliya from Turkey. The newcomers quickly became an integral part of Israeli society. This community brings its distinguished legacy from Spain through Turkey, introducing some of the greatest Rabbis of this generation. This community contributes much to the society and always had good relations with its neighbors. This important and distinguished community never found the time, energy or resources to build a home, a center to commemorate their heritage. Center that will preserve its cultural assets and will enable the future generations to learn from it's past of their forefathers coming from Spain through Turkey to the Promised Land. For the purpose of establishing a Turkish Jewish Heritage Center, the municipality of Yehud donated a 250 square meter building on a 1250 square meter size field. In return, the Association took upon itself to renovate this abandoned building and turn it into the heritage center.