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Heart and Soul: Ladino: Saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language

Ladino: saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language

23/02/2024 GMT

Ladino: Saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language

BBC World Service - Heart and Soul, Ladino: Saving Greece’s ancient Jewish language

How the language of Thessaloniki’s Jews disappeared

Can the language of Thessaloniki’s Jews, Ladino, ever be revived?

For centuries, the Judaeo-Spanish language of Ladino was spoken in the vibrant streets of Thessaloniki. But today, it is a language on the verge of fading away, its echoes becoming fainter with each passing generation. 

Journalist and language enthusiast Sophia Smith Galer heads to the city to find out what happened to Ladino, and where its traces may still be found today - hearing from the teachers, community members and even singers who do not want Greece to forget one of their linguistic jewels. Walking through the city's historical landmarks, Sophia uncovers tales of tragedy, resilience, and cultural loss. The remnants of a once-thriving community are juxtaposed with the weight of the Holocaust, which decimated Thessaloniki's Jewish population.

Producer/presenter: Sophia Smith Galer
Series producer: Rajeev Gupta
Production co-ordinator: Mica Nepomuceno

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