Jewish Sephardic history in Lisbon

Lisbon, PT
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (23 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Guaranteed to skip ticket lines.
  • inclusion
    Visit the sinagoga shaare tikva from the inside (tickets included);
  • inclusion
    Guide will accompany you inside locations to explain its history;
  • inclusion
    Small group tour with professional guide;

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Lunch and any other items not mentioned in the program

Meeting Point

Your guide will be in front of our synagogue to meet you.

Meeting point

R. Alexandre Herculano 59, 1250-010 Lisboa , Portugal

End point

End Point

NOTE: The end point may not be Alfama. It will be somewhere in Lisbon´s Old-Town. All depends on our travellers curiosity and physical capabilities. And also weather conditions ;-)

Meeting point

Lisbon , Portugal

End point

What to expect

1

Sinagoga Shaare Tikva

The start of the tour will be at the Shaare Tikva, Lisbon Synagogue, the 1st synagogue to be built in Portugal since the late 15th century. Learn the story of the Jewish community in Portugal (specially Lisbon) on this tour, visiting significant sites to the community in the Portuguese capital. Since the Jewish exodus from Egypt, and the journey through lands, countries, and continents as the ultimate nomads, they reached what is nowadays Portugal. Learn how communities appeared, disappeared, and reappeared; belonging everywhere and yet nowhere.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2

Principe Real

From the synagogue we walk through the Principe Real Park down to the Chiado neighborhood.

Duration 30 minutes
3

Bertrand

Reaching Chiado, you will learn about a very famous Jewish writer and see one curiosity in the oldest bookstore of the world, since 1732, founded by Pedro Faure.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Praca Dom Pedro IV

Walk to the center of the Holy Inquisition, the Rossio Square. Column of Pedro IV In the centre of Rossio Square sits the Column of Pedro IV of Portugal, known as “the Soldier King”. At the base of the pillar are four female figures that represent the King’s various qualities: Justice, Wisdom, Strength and Moderation. The D. Maria II National Theatre was founded in 1842, replacing the "Estaus Palace", that was headquarters of the Portuguese Inquisition since mid-fifteenth century.

Duration 45 minutes
5

Igreja de Sao Domingos

Passing by the sight of the April 19th, 1506 Lisbon Massacre, you will learn what happened and why. From this day, and during the next 3, more than 3000 "New Christians" where murdered in the streets only being stopped by the Kings Royal Army. The epicenter, being the Sao Domingo Church.

Duration 30 minutes
6

Praca do Comercio (Terreiro do Paco)

In the Baixa neighborhood you will walk to the biggest square in Portugal, Terreiro do Paco, modernly known as Praca do Comercio. Here you will be explained a few very important situations that changed the history of Portugal.

Duration 30 minutes
7

Alfama

Find the hidden and forgotten signs of the Jewish communities that lived in the Alfama neighborhood and discover where the old cemetery was.

Duration 45 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    We are only able to visit the inside of our synagogue on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
  • Additional information
    We will need Passport details (name, number, expiry and country) at time of booking for all participants for security reasons
  • Additional information
    There is a dress code (no uncovered shoulders, shorts, mini-skirt etc.)
Provided by TakingUThere

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit on Tuesday or Thursday for synagogue access.
  • icon
    Try nearby Tasca da Esquina for lunch.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Explore the Chiado district after the tour.
  • icon
    Check local events for cultural experiences.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to an immersive journey through Jewish Sephardic history in Lisbon! Discover the rich culture and heritage of Lisbon's Jewish community on this small group tour. Portugal has a long and fascinating history with the Jewish people, being one of the first world powers to recognize and embrace their presence. This tour takes you on a captivating exploration of significant sites, important memorials, and landmarks that reflect the enduring influence of the Jewish community in Lisbon.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to delve deep into the captivating Jewish history of Lisbon. The tour begins at Shaare Tikva, the first synagogue built in Portugal since the late 15th century. Your knowledgeable guide will share the captivating story of the Jewish community in Portugal, tracing their journey from the exodus in Egypt to their arrival in Lisbon. As you explore the city, you'll visit Principe Real, the Chiado neighborhood, Rossio Square, and the historic Igreja de Sao Domingos, where you'll gain insights into the events that shaped the Jewish community's experience. Discover hidden traces of the Jewish communities that once thrived in the Alfama neighborhood and even uncover the location of the old cemetery.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone with an interest in Jewish heritage. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Jewish Sephardic history in Lisbon and gain a deeper understanding of the Jewish community's resilience and impact on the city. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone passionate about history, this tour is an inclusive experience for all who wish to explore Lisbon's vibrant Jewish heritage.

Why book this?

Embark on this historical tour to step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating Jewish Sephardic history of Lisbon. Gain fascinating insights into the significant sites, stories, and experiences that have shaped the Jewish community's presence in the city. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll uncover hidden gems, explore iconic landmarks, and discover lesser-known aspects of Jewish heritage. This tour provides a truly unique perspective on Lisbon's history, allowing you to connect with the rich cultural tapestry of the city.

Good to know

It is important to note that the tour lasts for approximately 240 minutes, ensuring you have ample time to fully immerse yourself in the experience. The starting point is in front of Shaare Tikva, Lisbon Synagogue, where your guide will meet you. The tour takes you through different neighborhoods, parks, and historical sites, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended. The end point may vary depending on the group's interests and physical capabilities, as well as weather conditions. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to explore the Jewish Sephardic history of Lisbon!

Reviews

This tour has received rave reviews from individuals who have experienced it firsthand. Travelers praised the knowledgeable and passionate guides who brought the history of Lisbon's Jewish community to life. Many expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn about the Jewish Sephardic history and gain a deeper understanding of the community's influence on the city. Overall, the tour was described as engaging, informative, and a must-do for anyone interested in Jewish heritage and history. Join this tour and be prepared to be captivated by the fascinating stories and hidden treasures of Lisbon's Jewish past.

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