Obidos and Tomar Jewish Roots

This private tour delves into the lives of the Portuguese Jews, their influence, and their legacy, highlighting their profound impact on the most powerful Order in Europe during the Middle Ages.

Depart from Lisbon and start your journey with a scenic drive from Lisbon to the enchanting village of Óbidos. Wander through the picturesque streets of Óbidos, lined with white houses adorned with blue and yellow accents. Experience the charm of a village that has retained its medieval character since the early days of Portugal's nationality.

Óbidos is not only known for its picturesque streets and historic castle but also for its significant Jewish heritage. The Jewish community played an essential role in the village's history, leaving behind a legacy that can still be felt today.The Jewish presence in Óbidos dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries when the village was a thriving hub of commerce and culture. The Jewish community contributed significantly to the local economy, engaging in various trades and crafts. The Jewish quarter, known as the "Judiaria," was located within the town's walls. Walking through these narrow, cobbled streets, visitors can still see the remnants of this once-vibrant community. The Judiaria was a self-contained area where the Jewish population lived, worked, and worshiped.

Although the original synagogue no longer stands, its location is marked and remembered in local lore. It served as a place of worship, community gathering, and education for the Jewish residents of Óbidos. Many buildings in Óbidos still bear the marks of their former Jewish inhabitants. These include symbols and inscriptions that were carved into doorways and walls, providing a glimpse into the town's multicultural past.

Explore the streets where the Jewish community once thrived, identifying the marks and influences they left behind in the buildings and architecture.

Climb up to the castle for breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. The castle provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the historical and natural beauty of the area. The site of Óbidos Castle has been fortified since Roman times, and it was later occupied by the Moors. The castle as seen today has significant architectural contributions from various periods, particularly from the medieval era.The castle was taken from the Moors in 1148 by King Afonso I during the Christian Reconquista. Over the following centuries, it was expanded and strengthened, particularly under the reign of King Dinis, who gave the castle and the village of Óbidos as a wedding gift to his queen, Isabel of Aragon, in 1282. This tradition of gifting Óbidos to queens continued, earning it the nickname "House of the Queens".

Conclude your visit to Óbidos with a taste of "ginjinha," a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from sour cherries (Prunus cerasus). It is a popular beverage in Portugal, especially in Lisbon and the village of Óbidos. Ginjinha has a deep cultural significance and is beloved by both locals and tourists for its rich flavor and history.

Lunch Break: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Tomar’s many delightful restaurants, where you can savor traditional Portuguese cuisine (not included).

After lunch, continue to Tomar, a picturesque town in central Portugal, renowned for its rich history, which includes a significant Jewish heritage. The town played a crucial role in the lives of Jewish communities during the medieval period, and many of its historical sites reflect this influence.

During the medieval period, Tomar was a vibrant center for Jewish life. The Jewish community was integral to the town's cultural and economic development. The Jewish community in Tomar, like elsewhere in Portugal, faced severe trials during the late 15th century. The Edict of Expulsion in 1496 forced Jews to either convert to Christianity or flee the country. Many Jews converted but continued to practice Judaism in secret, known as Crypto-Jews or Marranos.

We will take you to visit the Tomar Synagogue, built in the 15th century, one of the oldest synagogues in Portugal. It served as a place of worship until the expulsion of the Jews in 1496. The building reflects a blend of Gothic and Manueline architectural styles. Today, the synagogue houses the Abraham Zacuto Luso-Hebraic Museum, named after the famous Jewish astronomer and mathematician. The museum exhibits artifacts related to Jewish culture and history in Portugal, including ancient manuscripts, ritual objects, and tombstones.

Adjacent to the synagogue, visitors can find the remnants of the Mikveh, a Jewish ritual bath used for purification. This site underscores the religious practices of the Jewish community in Tomar.Walking through the historic Jewish quarter of Tomar, visitors can observe the layout of the streets and houses where the Jewish community lived. Although many buildings have been repurposed, the area retains its historical charm and significance.

While not a Jewish site, the Santa Maria dos Olivais Church is noteworthy for its historical connection to the Knights Templar, who played a significant role in Tomar's history. The church's cemetery includes tombstones with inscriptions that some believe show a blend of Jewish and Christian symbols, reflecting the complex religious history of the region.

The Convent of Christ (tickets not included; tickets can be purchased at the monument) in Tomar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key symbol of the Knights Templar. The Knights Templar had a profound influence on Tomar, and the Convent of Christ served as their headquarters. The complex architecture of the convent includes symbols and designs that reflect the Templars' history and their interactions with Jewish communities.

The Jewish community in Tomar exemplifies the broader history of Jews in Portugal — one of integration, cultural contribution, and later, persecution.

Despite the hardships faced by Jews during the Inquisition, the legacy of the Jewish community in Tomar continues to be honored and preserved through the restoration of key historical sites and the establishment of the museum.

Tomar offers a fascinating glimpse into the Jewish heritage of Portugal, highlighting the resilience and contributions of the Jewish community throughout history. Exploring the synagogue, museum, and historic Jewish quarter provides a deeper understanding of the town's multicultural past and the significant role Jews played in shaping its cultural and economic life. Tomar's Jewish heritage, intertwined with its Knights Templar history, makes it a unique destination for those interested in the rich tapestry of Portugal's history.

Our knowledgeable guides will provide deep insights into the Jewish heritage and historical context of the sites you visit. Enjoy a private tour tailored to your interests, ensuring a comfortable and engaging exploration of Óbidos and Tomar. Taste local delicacies, walk through centuries-old streets, and immerse yourself in the stories that shaped these regions.

Join us and uncover the rich Sephardic history that has shaped Portugal's cultural and historical landscape. Discover the stories and legacy of the Jewish communities in Óbidos and Tomar with Essência da Latitude.

Itinerary: Pickup; ÓbidosÓbidos: Jewish Quarter; Óbidos: Castle; Lunch: Free Time; Tomar: Historical Center; Tomar: Synagogue and Mikveh; Tomar: Christ Convent; Tomar: Santa Maria dos Olivais Church;Hotel drop off.