Castelo de Vide — Medieval Judiaria & Oldest Synagogue in Portugal

About This Activity

Castelo de Vide's judiaria (Jewish quarter) is the best-preserved medieval Jewish quarter in Portugal — narrow Gothic streets with pointed doorways (ogival doors, a trademark of Jewish-owned houses). The tiny synagogue on Rua da Judiaria is believed to be the oldest in Portugal (13th-14th century). The adjacent fountain (Fonte da Vila) was where the community gathered. The town is in the beautiful Alentejo region near the Spanish border.

Seasonal note: Spring and autumn ideal for exploring Alentejo on foot. The medieval judiaria is open-air; the synagogue interior has limited opening hours — call ahead.