The Seven Communities – Jewish Heritage and Wine Tradition in Burgenland

The Seven Communities – Jewish Heritage and Wine Tradition in Burgenland

The so-called “Seven Communities” were seven significant Jewish communities in today’s Burgenland, established in the 18th century. They were founded by Jewish families fleeing religious persecution from parts of Hungary, today’s Slovakia, and other regions of Central Europe, who found a new home under the protection of the Esterházy princes.

Over generations, these communities developed into vibrant centers of Jewish religious, cultural, and economic life. They left a lasting impact on the region—particularly through their close connection to viticulture.

The Seven Communities

Kittsee
Founded in 1712, Kittsee was one of the oldest Jewish communities in the region. It had a significant Jewish population and a lively cultural life.

Frauenkirchen
Also founded in 1712, Frauenkirchen became known for its synagogue and Jewish school. The community quickly developed into an important religious center.

Mattersburg
Mattersburg, likewise founded in 1712, was one of the most influential Jewish communities in Burgenland. Its synagogue, school, and mikveh (ritual bath) reflected a well-organized and confident community.

Eisenstadt
Founded in 1717, Eisenstadt was the intellectual center of the Seven Communities. The famous Esterházy Synagogue and numerous scholars made the town renowned far beyond the region.

Kobersdorf
Established in 1726, Kobersdorf was comparatively small but had a synagogue and a Jewish school and was firmly integrated into regional life.

Lackenbach
From 1730 onward, a Jewish community developed in Lackenbach. Small but vibrant, it played an important role in the local economy.

Deutschkreutz
The youngest of the Seven Communities, founded in 1737, became one of the most significant communities with its synagogue, school, and mikveh. Today, it remains at the heart of one of Burgenland’s most famous wine regions.

Viticulture as a Lifeline and Cultural Heritage

Viticulture was central to life in the Seven Communities. The fertile soils and Pannonian climate provided ideal conditions, which Jewish families utilized across generations.

Wine was far more than an economic commodity. It played a vital role in religious life—from the Sabbath Kiddush to Jewish holidays. The knowledge, experience, and craftsmanship of Jewish winemakers contributed significantly to the development of regional viticulture. Burgenland wines earned a strong reputation, recognized far beyond the region.

Even though the Jewish communities were destroyed during the events of the 20th century, their legacy lives on—in the landscape, in historical traces, and in the long-standing tradition of winemaking.

SK Wines

With SK Wines, we build on this heritage and aim to bring kosher wine in Burgenland back to life. With respect for history, deep awareness of tradition, and the highest quality standards, we combine Jewish wine culture with modern Burgenland winemaking—carrying a centuries-old tradition into the present.