Sinagoga Medieval de Castelo de Vide

The Sinagoga Medieval de Castelo de Vide is a two-story stone building with Gothic elements in Santa Maria da Devesa. Pointed arches frame the entrances and windows, giving the structure a characteristic appearance of the period.

The synagogue was built in the late 14th century and operated until 1496, when King Manuel I decreed the expulsion of Jews from Portugal. This decree ended a long presence of Jewish life in the region and changed the community's history forever.

The interior preserves a 15th-century carved stone Torah ark with a pedestal decorated with seven spheres representing the days of the week. The space reflects the Jewish traditions that this community practiced for centuries.

The building operates today as a museum dedicated to Jewish heritage, displaying artifacts and information about the local Jewish community. Visitors should allow time to explore the carved details and rooms thoroughly.

A mezuzah containing fragments of the Shema prayer remains positioned above one of the ground floor doorways. This small object represents a direct link to a community that left traces of their presence before being forced to leave.

Location: Santa Maria da Devesa

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 39.41752,-7.45676

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:25