Description
In the spring of 1712, a Jewish casino was established in the Mediterranean port of Livorno (the casini were exclusive sites for conversation and game playing among the upper classes). Although in the seventeenth century the Jewish leadership had opposed them, it allowed this one to open as a way to prevent more dangerous forms of entertainment among young people. The venue was explicitly intended for the solace of the Livornese Jewish merchants and was given official sanction by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. In 1714, the massari (lay leaders) of the community assumed control of the space, by renting rooms on behalf of the community, and appointed one Isache Zamero as their agent to manage it. The following document includes some of the motivations that led the massari to accept the casino’s establishment, as well as the regulations they issued in order to guarantee decorum and modesty within its premises.
Start Date
17-8-2015 12:00 AM
Location
Ohio State University, Columbus
A Jewish casino in Livorno
Ohio State University, Columbus
In the spring of 1712, a Jewish casino was established in the Mediterranean port of Livorno (the casini were exclusive sites for conversation and game playing among the upper classes). Although in the seventeenth century the Jewish leadership had opposed them, it allowed this one to open as a way to prevent more dangerous forms of entertainment among young people. The venue was explicitly intended for the solace of the Livornese Jewish merchants and was given official sanction by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. In 1714, the massari (lay leaders) of the community assumed control of the space, by renting rooms on behalf of the community, and appointed one Isache Zamero as their agent to manage it. The following document includes some of the motivations that led the massari to accept the casino’s establishment, as well as the regulations they issued in order to guarantee decorum and modesty within its premises.
