Looking to discover a different side of Galicia? Follow the routes through its historic Jewish quarters and uncover the traces left by Jewish communities over the centuries.
Jewish communities have been documented in Galicia since the 11th century, with a presence in towns and cities such as Ourense, Allariz, Monterrei and Pontevedra. Today, Monforte de Lemos, Ribadavia and Tui are part of the Network of Jewish Quarters of Spain – Caminos de Sefarad, helping to preserve and showcase this rich historical and cultural heritage.
Monforte de Lemos: medieval streets and ancient fortresses
In the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, Monforte de Lemos preserves the memory of a Jewish community that grew particularly from the 12th century onwards.
Start your visit at Monte de San Vicente, home to the Monastery of San Vicente do Pino, the Tower of Homage and the Palace of the Counts of Lemos. Look closely at the Tower of Homage and you may spot Stars of David carved into some of its stone blocks.
From here, the route leads down towards Porta Nova and along Rúa Falagueira, once the main street of the Jewish quarter. Continue through the historic streets of PescaderÃa, ZapaterÃa and Abelardo Baanante, discovering the places where this community once lived and worshipped.
Ribadavia: the heart of Jewish heritage in O Ribeiro
In Ribadavia, Jewish heritage is an integral part of the town’s identity. Its Jewish community flourished from the 12th and 13th centuries, with trade and the famous wines of O Ribeiro playing an important role in its prosperity.
Start in the Praza Maior and wander through the old Jewish quarter, following its medieval streets towards Praza da Madalena and Porta Nova de Abaixo.
To delve deeper into this history, visit the Galicia Sephardic Museum, housed in the Pazo dos Condes de Ribadavia. And if you visit during the Festa da Istoria, you can step back in time with the recreation of a medieval Jewish wedding.
Tui: Jewish heritage on the banks of the Miño
Close to the Portuguese border, Tui offers another fascinating glimpse into Galicia’s Jewish past.
One of its most remarkable traces can be found inside Tui Cathedral, whose Gothic cloister features a menorah. From here, explore the old Jewish quarter and discover places connected with the everyday and religious life of the community.
Highlights include the Casa de Salomón, dating from the 15th century, the Torre do Xudeu and Porta PÃa or Porta da Pila. You can also visit the cathedral’s Diocesan Museum, home to five sambenitos dating from the time of the Inquisition.
Three destinations, one shared history and a unique way to discover Galicia: walking through its historic quarters and travelling back through the centuries.
Ready to explore Galicia’s Jewish heritage and discover the stories hidden among its streets? Discover the full routes here.
