About this experience
On this guided walk, you will explore the places of ancient settlements where Lisbon's Jews lived and created. Learn about great mathematicians, doctors, righteous individuals, and explorers. Visit a synagogue and the Carmelite monastery, and discover how the city became the New Jerusalem and how the destinies of people of different faiths intertwined, creating the unique color of Lisbon.
What to Expect
Sephardic Heritage
The walk will start in Jardim do Principe Real Park, where I will tell you about how many centuries ago the city received its second name – New Jerusalem, becoming a sacred place of pilgrimage, and show you where great Sephardic Jews lived and made discoveries from the 12th to the 16th centuries. We will discuss how during the dawn of the Roman Empire, they lived side by side with Roman families, creating a unique spirit of Lisbon. How later the destinies of people of different religions intertwined. And what influence they had on the culture, architecture, gastronomy, and mentality of the native inhabitants.
Stories of Lisbon's Jews
I will talk about the mathematician with a world-renowned name – Pedro Nunes – and the dedicated doctor Garcia da Orta, about the explorers of distant lands such as Goa, China, Brazil, and the scientists who brought glory to Portugal as a great maritime power. You will hear about Aristides de Sousa Mendes, who saved thousands of refugees from Europe during World War II. You will also stroll through the park of silk weavers, visit the synagogue and Carmelite monastery - Convento do Carmo. Discover the connection between Jerusalem and Lisbon Carmelites and learn about the Sephardic doctor Pedro IV.
The walk will end at Praca da Figueira, at the very point where Jewish and Christian Lisbon converged.
Organizational Details
The synagogue operates on specific days. If you wish to attend a prayer service, please inform me in advance to coordinate the schedule.
