Sinagoga de Besalú

The synagogue complex includes a rectangular underground chamber with barrel vaults, stone stairs, and a window providing natural illumination to the ritual bath.

Discovered in 1964 by landowner Esteve Arboix, the mikveh dates from 1200 and remained hidden until experts confirmed its religious purpose through water capacity measurements.

The ritual bath served both men and women for purification purposes, while the synagogue hosted religious services, civil meetings, and educational activities for children.

Visitors can explore two restoration phases, which uncovered the original 13th-century synagogue layout and restored water-related elements from 1601.

This site contains one of only four preserved mikvehs in Europe and represents the sole Jewish ritual bath discovered in the Iberian Peninsula alongside Girona.

Location: Besalú

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.19910,2.70042

Latest update: March 3, 2025 17:39