Tomar Synagogue — Portugal's Best-Preserved Medieval Synagogue
Lisbon, Portugal
About This Activity
The 15th-century synagogue in Tomar is the best-preserved medieval synagogue in Portugal. Built around 1430-60, it was converted to other uses after the 1497 forced conversion but the original Gothic columns, vaulted ceiling, and mikveh (ritual bath) survive. Now a museum (Museu Luso-Hebraico de Abraham Zacuto). Free admission. The town was home to the Knights Templar and later a center of crypto-Jewish life.
Seasonal note: Open year-round; spring and autumn most comfortable for the day trip. Tomar is a 1.5 hr drive or 2 hr bus from Lisbon.
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