Shalom!

The Berlin Olympic stadium is one of the most beautiful sports sites across the country. The impressive sandstone “bowl” was carefully modernized on the occasion of the FIFA World Cup in 2006. Its colonnades and giant statues resemble the monumental architecture of the old Romans. And not without reason: Originally built by the Nazis for the 1936 Summer Olympic Games, it primarily served – in addition to its original purpose – as a manifestation of the great power claim of the criminal Nazi regime. While the world was to compete in a peaceful sporting contest, the repressive measures against certain social classes and especially Jewish citizens had become unbearable in many places and Jewish athletes were also excluded from the Olympic games. 70 years after the horrors of the Holocaust and World War II, the Jewish community of Europe is coming to Berlin to celebrate the largest Jewish event in Europe. From July 27th to August 5th, the 14th European Maccabi Games will be held in the Berlin Olympic Park. More than 2.000 Jewish athletes from over 36 different countries will compete in 19 disciplines. Just like at the Olympic games, it all begins with a spectacular opening celebration at the Waldbühne. Wonderful Palina Rojinski will be the host throughout the evening, there’ll be music from Adel Tawil and Matisyahu, President Joachim Gauck will give the opening speech and fireworks will mark the arrival of the athletes. So bring the whole gang, have fun, root for peace and tolerance and send a message against racism and anti-semitism. Mazel tov!
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14th European Maccabi Games | 27.07.-05.08. | Olympiapark Berlin | Facebook | Tickets | Credit: EMG, M&C Saatchi 

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