In the heart of Budapest, right at 1 Újpesti Riverside (Újpesti rakpart), the Zsilip Community Center has become one of the city’s most exciting cultural hotspots. This isn’t just another meeting place; it’s where people of all generations and backgrounds are welcomed to discover, connect, and learn about Jewish heritage in the most relaxed and friendly way. Whether you’re in search of a great conversation, a steaming cup of kosher coffee, or want to experience the traditions and energy of contemporary Jewish life, the Zsilip Center is definitely worth a visit.
All-Around Learning, All the Time
Starting October 27, 2025, Zsilip’s events calendar is all about the spirit of learning together. At the heart of the program is the “Havruta – House of Learning Together” initiative. In Jewish tradition, learning isn’t just academic—it’s a way of seeing the world. At Zsilip, education is built around community, with the belief that knowledge is most powerful when it’s shared and discussed in small, focused groups, just like in a yeshiva.
Every week, their study circle—the Havruta—opens its doors to anyone eager for knowledge. Each session is devoted to thinking together and linking ancient wisdom with present-day life, organized into lively groups and guided discussions. If you’re looking to debate, discover, and question, this is the place to be.
A Month of Havruta
Mark your calendar, because the Havruta sessions take place almost weekly for months. Running on these dates: October 27 and 29; November 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, and 26; and again on December 1, 3, 8, and 10. Each time, the same core concept applies—learning as a community experience, not a solo pursuit. The regularity of the program makes it easy for anyone to join in, whether you’re there for the first time or a returning participant eager to deepen your understanding.
Spotlight on Women’s Roles
On November 20, a special session departs from the group format to invite everyone for an open discussion with Rebbetzin Sarah Nógrádi. She is dedicated to answering all those burning (and often controversial) questions about the true role of women in Judaism. Participation is free, but seats fill up fast, so registration is required; people from all walks of life are invited to join, and the event is open throughout the year.
Much More Than Study Circles
Zsilip is about much more than sitting in a circle for hours and then heading home. The center goes much deeper with its offerings: a kosher café and a popular bagel bar, live music, theater performances, and a full schedule of workshops, lectures, and playful activities for children and teens. You can expect a constant rotation of cultural and educational events touching on all aspects of Jewish tradition—always lively, never stuffy.
Open Doors, Open Minds
Most of the events at Zsilip are free, promoting an open-door policy that allows curiosity, dialogue, and new friendships to flourish. The focus is always on easy access and the freedom to question, making the community hub ideal not only for Jewish locals looking to rediscover their roots but also for Budapest residents and tourists interested in learning something genuine about Jewish thought, history, and daily life.
Everyone Welcome
No matter your background, age, or prior experience, Zsilip aims to be the city’s friendliest access point to Jewish culture—not a museum or a monastery, but a living room for the city where tradition, learning, laughter, and good food mingle effortlessly. All year round, anyone with questions or just a healthy dose of curiosity can drop by, relax, and get involved in the cultural and communal buzz that fills the riverside building every day.
With its regular Havruta learning groups, special guest events like the women’s study with Sarah Nógrádi, and an unbeatable atmosphere of inclusion and stimulation, the Zsilip Community Center is throwing open the gates for a new kind of Jewish engagement in Budapest. Again and again, curiosity finds a home here.
