Tours of Jewish Lisbon
Our tours of Jewish Lisbon are conducted by Paolo Scheffer, a scholar of Jewish History with Lisbon Explorer Walking Tours. Paolo brings the city alive with a fresh and informative style, revealing layers of accurate events and locations which provide a unique look at Lisbon and Portugal from a Jewish perspective.
Reserve a tour at Lisbon Explorer
Lisbon From a Jewish Perspective!
3.5 hours · Easy to moderate walking
Documents of the Jewish people residing in Lisbon date back to 482 CE. However, historians and archeologists attest to a Jewish presence in Portugal that dates to the time of King Solomon.
Before and during the Age of Discovery, the Jews of Portugal held social and political ranks with the favor of kings, and conciliatory relations between Muslims and Christians alike. These periods were equally marked by inquisitions, forced baptisms and brutal massacres. Join us as we explore the major sights of downtown Lisbon. Along the way discover the amazing story of Marranos (Crypto-Jews), a distinctive Sephardi sub-group in Portugal who survived over 400 years of persecution in secret. At the site of the Inquisitors Palace we reveal stories of famous Portuguese Jews who have contributed to the arts, sciences and politics of the world.
In the Chiado neighborhood, the most important Jewish artifacts in Portugal are hidden in the most unexpected places. In Praça do Comércio learn about Portugal's own Oskar Schindler, who defied state orders to save thousands of Jews during the Second World War.
Major highlights on this walking tour
The Jewish Quarters Grande and Pequeno, Estaus Palace—tribunal of the Inquisition, Rossio Square—memorial to the massacres of 1506, Carmo Ruins. Plus, much more.
Meeting place
In the lobby of the guest's hotel, cruise ship dock, or at a convenient public location. A map with the exact location is sent with your email confirmation.
Schedule
Year round at 9:30am or 1:30pm.
Includes
Guide, entry fees, taxes and public transit or taxis when needed. No hidden fees.
Special note
Visits to the orthodox synagogue (closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday) and the Jewish cemetery require advanced reservations. These sights are located outside the city center and not easily accessible. We are happy to make your reservation for an independent visit by taxi or private driver at an additional fee.