Porto Jewish Heritage Tour

The Jewish Heritage on the Iberian Peninsula goes back to the first century, still during the Roman Empire.

Portuguese historians believe that the first Jewish people arrived in Portugal 2000 years ago, after the destruction of the second Temple in Jerusalem, but it was mostly during the 13th, 14th, and 15th centuries that the Jewish presence took more relevance in Portugal.

Immerse yourself in Portugal´s Jewish heritage. With our private guide, walk along the narrow streets in Porto and learn about Jewish heritage in Porto and its Jewish community. Discover places where once existed hidden synagogues in the most historic streets and quarters of the city.

During this tour we will travel in time, visiting places that will take us to medieval times, and discover the cruelty of the inquisition. We will visit two former Jewish quarters: Judiaria Velha and Judiaria do Olival, where a monument to the victims of the inquisition can be found. And we will learn why some people were called New Christians and other Cryptojews or Marranos.

We will walk along the lovely Passeio das Virtudes, where once stood an old cemetery that served the second Jewish quarter in Porto. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a magnificent sunset.

And finally, we will continue to Boavista, where the Jewish community settled in the 17th and 18th centuries. After passing the largest synagogue in the Iberian Peninsula – Kadoorie Mekhor Haim Synagogue – was founded in 1923.

We will visit the newly opened Jewish Museum and learn about the history of the Jews in Portugal.

Finish the Jewish heritage tour in a trendy urban market for a tasting of a kosher drink.