UPDATE: Help us tell the history of Jews in Albania!

UPDATE: Simon Vrusho passed away on February 9th 2019. I would like to continue this campaign as an act of remembrance and to preserve his work for future generations.

Simon Vrusho is an Albanian Jew living in Berat. Owner of the Solomon Museum, he has also published a book in Albanian detailing the long and interesting history of Jews in Albania.

This story is a wonderful example of how Jews, Muslims, and Christians have coexisted in one place for centuries- respecting, tolerating, and living togehter in peace and harmony. Simon's story details how Jews first came here hundreds of years ago, how Muslim Albanian's saved 2000 Jewish lives in WWII by concealing them from the Nazi's in their own homes, and how their history has progressed since then.

Simon has dedicated his life to telling and sharing this story and his museum in Berat has become a popular tourist destination. His book however is only available in Albanian, meaning that most of the visitors to his museum are unable to read the full story.

Berat had 120,000 tourists over the summer season last year and we would like to translate his book into English, publish it and allow Simon to share his lifes work with the rest of the world. To translate and publish the book will cost in the reigon of 2500 EUR and I will take care of all marketing and promotion on a pro bono basis. We would love to have his work published for all to read, so they can truly appreciate this beautiful and inspiring historical story.

You can read more about Simon and his museum here: http://thebalkanista.com/2018/11/06/a-visit-to-berats-only-jewish-museum/

Help us!