Historic Jewish Walking Tour of Coimbra

Discover the rich Jewish heritage in Coimbra! Explore centuries-old cultural, historical, and scientific remnants of national and international significance. Uncover fascinating curiosities and embark on a journey into the past, delving into the vibrant Jewish history of Portugal.

Experience details

• Destination

  Coimbra

• Category

  Art & culture tours

• Duration

  2 hours

• Mode of transport

  Walking

• Available languages

  English • Português • Español

• What's included

  Private guide

Here’s an overview of your tour

Your itinerary

• Meeting point

  Praça 8 de Maio

• May 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 visit

• Aristides House

  Casa Aristides Sousa Mendes - The house where the great World War II hero, who saved thousands of lives, lived as a student.

Select your local guide

Explore the city with our diverse Withlocals hosts—passionate storytellers offering unique perspectives on every tour.

• João

  Local Guide

  João

  4.8

  9 reviews

  I speak

  English • Português • Español
  Choose

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.

Reviews

• Kathie About local João November 10, 2024
  5.0

  Jaoa is very knowledgeable and flexible

  "Jaoa is extremely knowledgeable about Coimbra and enjoyed sharing its stories and sights with us. We let him know at the last minute that we would be 30 minutes late and he was very flexible and grac... show more

• ChristineAbout local João October 1, 2024
  5.0

  Coimbra

  "We had a lovely 2 hours with João. We learned a lot about the history of Portugal and Coimbra. He went to University there so was able to give his perspective too. "

• KarenAbout local João September 30, 2024
  5.0

  A++++ Exceptional tour with João

  "We took the Highlights and Hidden Gems tour in Coimbra with João yesterday. He was extremely knowledgeable, spoke perfect English, and was able to answer every question we threw at him - including ma... show more