[The medical school of Padua and its Jewish graduates]

During the period between the 12th and 16th century, most European universities were under Papal control and Jews were restricted. An exception to this was the University of Padua, established in 1222. As "Universa Universis Patavina Liberta", outside of papal control, Jewish students were permitted to study and qualify for academic degrees. The Medical School, opened in 1250, was generally regarded as the best medical school in Europe. The universities tolerant and liberal approach attracted students the world-over, particularly drawing European Jews to Padua to study medicine. However, these young Jews lacked the necessary prerequisites, including a basic knowledge of Latin, the official university language. They benefited from the generous support of the Jewish community of Padua and, in particular, that of the Paduan medical alumni, the best known of whom was Dr. Salomo Conigliano. Between the years 1409 and 1816, 325 Jewish physicians graduated from the University of Padua. Among them were many distinguished scholars including Joseph Del Medigo, Joseph Hamiz, Benjamin Mussafia and Tovia Cohen, and many families of physicians who returned to their home countries to practice medicine. In addition to their medical contribution, Jewish graduates served their communities as religious and social leaders. They shared a common university background and cultural heritage, common interests and values. They also maintained close contact among themselves and among non-Jewish colleagues and hence were influenced by new social and cultural movements in Europe. These Jewish graduates of Padua played a crucial role in the developments of the Jewish culture and society, including the "Haskala" movement.