The Museo Sefardi located right next to the house of El Greco, and if you enjoy some of the religious paintings of a Christian painter, you might also jump right next door and visit a museum of another religion. There is another advantage if you are here on Saturday afternoon or Sunday as the museum is free – like the house of El Greco.
The museum used to be one of several synagogues in Toledo. It was built in 1355 when there was still religious tolerance in Spain. During the Spanish inquisition this tolerance disappeared and in 1492 all Jews in Spain were given the choice to convert to Catholicism, leave Spain or be executed. After this the synagogue wasn’t used for its original purpose – instead it was at different times used as a priory, hermitage and military barracks. The building probably has significantly altered during these periods but it has been restored to it is original appearance.
As you enter the front door, you will see a large and impressive prayer hall which I think is the most interesting part of the whole museum. I haven’t been inside many synagogues, so it was quite interesting to see it compared to different churches and mosque I have seen over the years.
There are some displays of different clothing’s and different religious artefacts in the hallway, and there is also a small garden and some graves outside the building.
See also on this:
https://dearkitty1.wordpress.com/2006/11/06/spains-jewish-heritage-ages-after-expulsion/
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You visit such interesting and beautiful places!
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Yes – it was interesting and the great hall was stunning.
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Absolutely beautiful!
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Indeed it is 🙂
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The prayer hall looks gorgeous! I’d be interested in the little garden and graves outside too. So much history!
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Yes it was a interesting little place to go for a visit.
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I think we all should come see these magnificent sites such as this one. I would love to see the outside areas. Jewish History is fascinating to me through my love for history of the world. You are fortunate to see such remarkable locations
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Yeah we were glad to see this museum and All of the old town of toledo.
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I can only imagine how this must have touched your hearts and eyes with such splendor.
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Yeah the prayer hall was very nice to visit with its grandeur.
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Thanks for sharing this with us today !!
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You Welcome and thanks for reading.
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Ah this place looks so interesting!
SHAKIRA SACKS
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It was very interesting to visit
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You cover sooo many wonderful places! Thanks for sharing your amazing experiences with all of us.
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Yes, both of us love to travel and explore places less travel by tourist. Thank you for reading. I wish you have a wonderful weekend.
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It’s been fun reading your posts. Have a terrific weekend.
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Thanks. You too:)
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Beautiful post and photos – very interesting to read about the history!
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Thank you – I am happy you liked the Photos.
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