Besa: A Code of Honor (by Yad Vashem)

This exhibition features large photographs taken by American photographer Norman Gershman accompanied by outstanding personal rescue stories of Muslim-Albanian families who saved Jews and were recognized as Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem.

The remarkable assistance afforded to the Jews was grounded in Besa, a code of honor, which still today serves as the highest ethical code in Albania. Besa literally means “to keep the promise.” One who acts according to Besa is someone who keeps his word, someone to whom one can trust one’s life and the lives of one’s family.

The photographs reveal the rescuers' humanity as well as the unique ethnic identity of the Albanian population today.

We invite you to come and view this temporary exhibit to learn about some of these wonderful people and their courageous acts.

NZ government COVID requirements are to be followed - QR code scanning, masks are to be worn, and My Vaccine pass is required for entry.

Closed on Easter Public holidays & some Jewish holidays.