In 2019, the Aube region in Champagne joined the European Cultural Route of Jewish Heritage as the birthplace of a universally known and recognised intangible heritage shared by Jews around the world, thanks to the legacy of Rashi.
Since 2022, the ‘Rachi Trail’ has been an artistic and commemorative route, centred around three murals (which are permanently accessible free of charge), offering visitors the chance to discover the history of the medieval Jewish communities of the Aube region. It forms an integral part of the Medieval Rachi Route in Champagne, alongside the Maison Rachi in Troyes. Books and writing form the central themes.
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3 frescos and an interactive adventure
In Dampierre, Ramerupt and Lhuître, three unexpected works of art draw inspiration from Rashi (1040–1105) and his disciples, leading Jewish scholars from our region. They highlight their strong connection with Champagne.
Conceived by three artists and created with the help of volunteers from the association “Les passeurs de fresques” and local residents, these murals bring to life a history waiting to be rediscovered, set in the glorious era of the Counts of Champagne. This community-led initiative enhances the appeal and vitality of our villages.
The Dampierre fresco
The Dampierre mural, created in 2022, can be seen on the wall of the town hall.
The artist, Jean-Philippe Ledit, has created a vibrant 3m by 3m work, at the centre of which Isaac of Dampierre, Rashi’s great-grandson, is depicted studying the sacred texts. In the 12th century, he was the leader of the Tossafists, Rashi’s school of thought. This fresco illustrates, within five blue circles symbolising the five books of the Torah (Hebrew Bible), the story of Isaac and his links with Champagne.
The fresco at Ramerupt
Opposite the church, the wall of the old village school features a mural by Ramerupt, measuring 4.20 metres by 3 metres.
Created in 2023 by the artist Javier de Sierra Salaberry, it depicts a meeting between Jacob (Rabbenu Tam), Rashi’s grandson, and the Count of Champagne, Henry I the Liberal, as they pore over the interpretation of a biblical commentary.
The two men, richly dressed, stand at the centre of the work, on a colourful floor, alongside Samuel (Rashbam), Jacob’s brother, and their mother Yochebed, daughter of Rashi. Their house features a vine arbour and a mezuzah (ritual object). These two symbols recall the activities of Rabbenu Tam, a wine merchant and renowned 12th-century Talmud commentator, a charismatic leading figure of the Tosafists, Rashi’s school.
Lhuître fresco
In 2023, muralist Jean-Jacques Jolinon painted a mural on the north wall of the town hall depicting Rashi, surrounded by his wife, daughters and disciples.
In the artwork, Rashi is depicted deep in thought, with a hoopoe whispering sacred words in his ear. His daughters are educated. They bear witness to the importance Rashi attached to the role of women. His famous grandson Samuel (Rashbam), a future great scholar, is being rocked by his grandmother. In contrast, Saint Tanche, patron saint of Lhuître, appears in front of her chapel. In the background, the harvest brings together Jewish and Christian peasants.
How can I view the frescos?
The Rachi Trail invites you to explore the medieval Jewish heritage of the Aube region in Champagne as you wander through the villages. The murals are open to the public all year round, so you can explore at your own pace.
To plan your guided tours: tourisme@ccamr.fr
