When Portugal was born in 1143, this minority was already spread across several important localities, such as Santarém, which had the oldest synagogue. The growth of the Jewish population was favored by the need to populate the land conquered from the Moors, with the synagogue serving as the commune’s government headquarters.
In the 14th century, each commune had one or more Jewish quarters, and the chief rabbi had delegated his representatives, known as “ouvidores,” in the main Jewish centers of the country: Porto (Douro and Minho Region); Torre de Moncorvo (Trás-os-Montes); Viseu (Beira); Covilhã (Beira/Serra da Estrela); Santarém (Estremadura); Évora (Alentejo); and Faro (Algarve). The “ouvidores” exercised true jurisdiction over all national Jewish communities.
The synagogue was a location of great importance from both a religious (similar to a church for Christians) and a civil perspective; it served as a gathering place for the commune’s members. The oldest synagogue in Portugal is in Tomar, featuring a roof supported by four columns representing the matriarchs of Israel: Sarah, Rachel, Rebecca, and Leah, connected by 12 arches symbolizing the 12 tribes of Israel, with four terracotta pots in the corners serving as natural amplifiers. Come and discover the significance of Jewish heritage on our Jewish route in Portugal, and clear all your doubts with our assistants.
Your Arrival in Lisbon
Our Jewish Route in Portugal begins with your arrival, where during the transfer, we will provide you with tips about the city, including restaurants and other interesting locations near your hotel.
