
The Golden Age of the Jews of Al-Andalus
Feb 18, 2025
From: 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Step back in time to explore the cultural achievements of medieval Spain's Jewish society through groundbreaking virtual technology. On Tuesday, February 18, The Golden Age of the Jews of Al-Andalus will be on display at the Kislak Center at the University of Miami, offering a glimpse into daily life in the Iberian Peninsula during this period of history.
The bilingual exhibition combines traditional museum elements with cutting-edge technology, featuring detailed facsimiles, virtual reconstructions, images and an innovative mixed reality experience of a medieval synagogue. Visitors will learn about influential figures such as diplomat Ibn Shaprut, poets Ibn Gabirol and Judah Halevi, and the renowned thinker Maimonides, whose contributions continue to inspire today.
A highlight of the exhibition is the integration of mixed reality technology. Developed in collaboration with The Virtual Experiences Simulation Lab, the exhibition includes an interactive AI avatar of the renowned philosopher Maimonides. For those unable to visit in person, the virtual reality version allows users to join the guided tour remotely.
Following the reception, Dr. Shai Cohen will lead a tour of the exhibition, showcasing its innovative components which allow visitors to explore Jewish life in medieval Iberia through both physical and virtual spaces. Originally curated by José Martínez Delgado of the University of Granada, this traveling exhibition is organized by Centro Sefarad-Israel in partnership with the Miller Center for Contemporary Judaic Studies, the George Feldenkreis Program in Judaic Studies and the Libraries at the University of Miami.