At the dawn of the post-Communist era, a small group of dreamers imagined something bold: a vibrant Jewish space in the heart of Budapest that would help rebuild and reimagine Jewish life in Hungary.
With the support of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and visionary partners from across Europe, JCC Budapest was born — and that vision became reality.
For over three decades, we have welcomed Jews of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences, offering multiple points of connection to Jewish life, culture, and community. In a city shaped by the legacy of the Holocaust and communism, we strive to make Jewish life accessible, open, and welcoming — a place where people can redefine their Jewish journey on their own terms.
Guided by enduring Jewish values, we believe Jews are an integral part of Hungarian and European society, now and for the future. We reflect the diversity, resilience, and creativity of Hungarian Jewry, while serving as a model for Jewish community building across Europe and as a vital link in the global Jewish community.
Even after 30 years, we are still dreamers.
After celebrating our 30th anniversary, we asked ourselves a new question: What does JCC Budapest need to become next?
Today, we are reimagining the JCC as a modern Beit Knesset — a House of Assembly — rooted in tradition yet responsive to a rapidly changing world. A place that honors the past while actively shaping the future, meeting evolving needs with openness, vitality, and renewed creativity.
At a challenging moment for Jewish communities worldwide, we move forward with confidence in what we have built — and with determination to imagine what comes next, together.
Be a Friend of JCC Budapest — and a partner in what comes next.
