Unveiling the Secrets of Lisbon’s Jewish Heritage

Lisbon, a city with a rich multicultural history, holds secrets of the ancient Jewish people that thrived between the 15th and 16th centuries.

In 1496, King Manuel I decreed the forced conversion of Jews who wished to remain in Portugal. Many converted to Christianity but maintained their traditions in secret, creating a Crypto-Jewish community. The Inquisition, which began in 1536, relentlessly persecuted the New Christians, leading many to flee the country.

We hope this brief introduction has piqued your curiosity. Through this tour, you will have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge about the history of the Jewish community in Lisbon.

Led by a specialized guide in Jewish history, you will explore emblematic places of Jewish Lisbon, such as the São Domingos Church, where the Auto-da-fé took place in 1506, and Rua da Prata, the former center of the Jewish community. The Church of Madalena and the Lisbon Cathedral also bear traces of the Jewish presence, while the Alfama district recalls the atmosphere of medieval Lisbon.

Unraveling the story of the Jewish community

Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to discover:

• Who were the Jews of Lisbon and how they lived.
• The places of worship and commerce of the Jewish community.
• The stories of forced conversion and persecution during the Inquisition.
• The Jewish legacy that still exists today in Portuguese culture and gastronomy.

This tour goes beyond providing historical information, aiming to create an immersive experience. Through vivid accounts and visits to places loaded with symbolism, you will have the opportunity to feel what life was like for Jews in Lisbon at that time.

Important information

• Duration: 3 hours
• Languages available: English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French
• Suggested times: 9:30 am or 2:30 pm (flexible times upon agreement)
• Private guide

This tour is a great option for those interested in Jewish history, Portuguese culture, and stories of human resistance and resilience.

For more information and booking:

• Jewish Lisbon Experience

Deepen your knowledge of the culture and Jewish legacy in the Portuguese capital. Book your place now!