Jewish history of Heide

Did you know that Heide saw a considerable influx of Jewish people between the two world wars? The large Jewish presence made a significant contribution to the explosive growth and prosperity of the village of Heide. Between 1930 and 1942, there were at least 700 registered Jewish residents. In addition, many hundreds of Jewish tourists used to come to enjoy nature at weekends and during the summer months.

In the late 1920s, they built a beautiful synagogue, the only one outside a big city in Belgium. They also founded a Yeshiva, a high school for Talmudic study; the first one in Belgium. Several hotels were specifically aimed at Jewish tourists. And many boarding houses and rooms in ordinary homes of local inhabitants welcomed Jewish guests.

Before and during World War II, many Jews - who had seen the approaching danger - had already left Heide and Antwerp before the Germans arrived. But unfortunately, the 37 Jewish people who remained in Heide were picked up by the Germans during two raids and sent to the extermination camps.