Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria. Jews are first recorded in the beginning of the ninth century. In the 13th century the Jewish community flourished with members engaged in money lending and banking. During the Black Death persecutions of 1348-49, over 1,200 Jews were murdered in Salzburg and nearby areas. In 1404, Jews were accused of desecrating the sacramental bread and almost all Jews except for 25 children and some pregnant women were burned alive. Jews resettled in 1439 and a synagogue was consecrated. Following false accusations Jews were expelled from Salzburg in 1498. The community was re-established in 1867 and in 1890 it was recognized as a religious association (Kultusverein) but under the jurisdiction of the community in Linz. In 1893, the community inaugurated a new synagogue and founded a burial society. In 1869, there were 47 Jews in Salzburg; 115 in 1880; 199 in 1900; and 239 in 1934. From 1907 to 1914 and again in 1919-20 the wellknown historian and rabbi Adolf Altmann (1879-1944) was chief rabbi of Salzburg. Owing to his efforts, the community gained independence in 1911. Jews contributed significantly to the rich cultural life of Salzburg. In 1884-85, Theodor Herzl practiced law in the local courts. After WWI, Stefan Zweig lived in Salzburg and his home became a magnet for international literary figures. During the 1920s, local Zionists were active. Jews were engaged in trade and were represented in the professional class as doctors, lawyers, and artists. Throughout this period antisemitism was strong and in 1931, kosher slaughter was forbidden. On 1 April 1933, Jewish shops were boycotted. In 1937, Jews were not allowed to attend local recreation centers. Immediately after the Anschluss (13 March 1938), several Jews were arrested and Jewish shops were confiscated. At the end of April 1938, private property was confiscated. Several men were arrested and sent to the Dachau concentration camp. In January 1939, the Jewish community ceased to exist. Most of its members emigrated and the 17 Jews who were still living in Salzburg escaped or left for Vienna in May 1939.