Historic Jewish Walking Tour of Coimbra
Our local for this tour
João - Local Guide
Experience details
Destination
Coimbra
Category
Art & culture tours
Duration
2 hours
Mode of transport
Walking
Available languages
English • Português
What's included
Private guide
Here’s an overview of your tour
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This tour will take you through Coimbra's Jewish past. The Jewish community was a significant part of this city and the country for several centuries. We'll explore the legacy they left in Coimbra and learn about their time here, always keeping the national context in mind.
We'll also discuss World War II and hear the story of a former Coimbra student who, defying the Portuguese regime, saved thousands of refugees in France. You'll see places in Coimbra linked to its Jewish past, which are of great national and international importance.
Let's uncover this incredible legacy together!
Depending on availability and the date of booking (Tuesday to Saturday, 1 PM to 6 PM), the tour might include a visit to an interesting exhibition about the Inquisition and the Jews. This will add about 15 minutes to the tour, making it a total of 2h15 hours.
Your itinerary
Meeting point
Praça 8 de MaioMay 8th square
May 8th Square. This square is linked to important moments in Jewish history. Very sad events took place in this area. We will also highlight the famous Christian Monastery of Santa Cruz, which had some curious connections with the Jewish community.Old Jewish Quarter
We will visit the old Jewish quarter, which became extinct in the 14th century.Commerce Square
As far as the Jewish past is concerned, it is also closely associated with heavy moments.Jewish Fountain
Although there have been renovations over the years, Coimbra still has a Jewish historical source that is several centuries old.New Jewish Quarter
Founded in the 14th century for the Jewish community, let's take a look at some of the main streets that were part of this neighborhood. The result of several profound changes over time, it is now a neighborhood with no visible Jewish heritage, but it is essential to visit.Inquisition Courtyard
The last inquisition court still in existence in the country is in Coimbra. In office between the 16th and 19th centuries, the Coimbra court was extremely violent. It persecuted thousands of people (specially Jews) and had control over part of Portugal. Depending on the time of our visit, (if it takes place between 1pm and 6pm, Tuesday to Saturday, we have the possibility to visit the exhibition).Mikveh
Jewish baths were found a few years ago. It is the only very well preserved medieval mikveh in the country, and one of the few in Europe. Outside visitAristides House
Casa Aristides Sousa Mendes - The house where the great World War II hero, who saved thousands of lives, lived as a student.
Do you know all our tours are private & personalised?
Did you know that Withlocals tours are completely customisable to your needs? What you see here is a base itinerary that you can modify! Simply get in touch with your selected local and let them know what you would like!
Select your local guide
Explore the city with our diverse Withlocals hosts—passionate storytellers offering unique perspectives on every tour.
João
Local Guide
João4.914 reviewsI speakEnglish • Português
Good to Know
Tips
- Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic
- Be mindful of sharing the real secret spots - let's keep them a secret
- Be aware of cultural norms & be mindful
Included
- Private guide
Cancellation
- Receive a full refund for cancellations done 7 days before the experience date.
- Your experience can be cancelled and fully refunded within 24 hours of purchase.
Why should you book a Withlocals tour?
100% customizable
Let your local host tailor the tour completely to your wishes.
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Questions?
We are here to help!
What is the cancellation policy?
When you make a booking you will receive a full refund when you cancel more than 7 days before the start of the booking.
When you make a booking that starts within 7 days and cancel within 24 hours after purchase you will receive a full refund.
When you make a booking that starts within 24 hours your booking is not refundable.
Read moreWhat payment methods are available?
During checkout you can choose from a number of different payment methods based on your location. We accept a variety of payment methods such as Credit Card, iDeal and many more.Can I pay in any currency?
Payment is always done in Euro but you can view the total amount in your local currency. Your bank might charge you a conversion rate fee from your local currency to Euro. No extra fees apply.Is this tour always private?
All our tours are 100% private, only you and your host.
Our local for this tour
João - Local Guide
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