Synagogue of Tomar
Antiga Sinagoga de Tomar · Tomar (São João Baptista) e Santa Maria dos Olivais
building in Tomar, Santarém District, Portugal
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation
Welcome to the Synagogue of Tomar, a small but immensely powerful site located in the heart of the city's ancient Hoo-dah-ree-ah, or Jewish Quarter. As you stand on the narrow, cobbled street of Rua Direita, you are looking at…
Listen in the app2Architectural Symbolism: Columns and Clay Jars
Once inside the main prayer hall, your eyes will be drawn to the four elegant columns that support the vaulted ceiling. This is a classic example of Luso-Hebraic architecture. …
Listen in the app3The Inquisition Era: From Sanctuary to Jail
The tragic turning point for this synagogue came in the late fifteenth century. After the forced conversions and the expulsion of the Jewish people from Portugal, the building was confiscated. …
Listen in the app4The Return of Samuel Schwarz
The story of the synagogue’s modern 'resurrection' is tied to one man: Samuel Schwarz. A Polish Jewish mining engineer working in Portugal in the early twentieth century, Schwarz became fascinated by the 'Crypto-Jews'—families…
Listen in the app5The Mikvah: Ritual Purification
Just next to the main synagogue building, you will find the remains of the Mikvah, or ritual bath. This was an essential part of Jewish life in the medieval period. …
Listen in the app6The Museum Collection: Stones of Remembrance
The synagogue now functions as the Luso-Hebraico Abraham Zacuto Museum, housing a poignant collection of artifacts related to Jewish history in Portugal. Among the most important items are the various stone inscriptions and…
Listen in the app7A Living Synagogue: Modern Pilgrimage
Perhaps the most moving aspect of the Synagogue of Tomar today is that it is no longer just a museum. In recent years, it has returned to its original purpose as a working synagogue. …
Listen in the app8Closing
As you step back out onto Rua Direita, take a moment to look back at the unassuming door of the synagogue. In a city dominated by the massive Convent of Christ and the legends of the Knights Templar, this small space holds a…
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What is Synagogue of Tomar?
Synagogue of Tomar is a place in Tomar (São João Baptista) e Santa Maria dos Olivais with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Tomar (São João Baptista) e Santa Maria dos Olivais |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 39.6032, -8.4137 |
| Last updated |
