Jewish Heritage

According to history, Jews arrived in the Iberian Peninsula around 900 b.C.

In the 12th century, when the Kingdom of Portugal was formed, the Jewish community received protection and tolerance from the crown in exchange for significant donations. Later, in the 14th and 15th centuries, the importance of this community was once again noticeable with their relevant input in the fields of science, commerce and finance to the colossal ventures of the Age of Discoveries.

The contribution of the Sephardi Jews to the History of Portugal and to the world extends over 500 years. The Jews dominated multiple fields of knowledge, from Finance to Medicine, as well as Astronomy, Cartography and Philosophy. In Portugal, it’s possible to find marks of the Jewish presence and culture throughout the country – cities, towns and villages where we can visit synagogues and witness an entire history of resistance and identity.

We have exclusive programs to guide you on an intimate journey into the Jewish Heritage in Portugal.