jewish tour barcelona

5 Best Barcelona Jewish Quarter Walking Tours (2024)

Tucked away in the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter, El Call, is more than just a collection of streets – it’s a whispering gallery of history.

Living in Spain has given me countless opportunities to wander through Barcelona, and each visit to El Call is like peeling back the pages of a fascinating history book.

This is why doing a walking tour of the Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter is a great idea to see how past and present merge seamlessly in its narrow alleys. With my picks for the best options for these tours, you’ll unravel the intricate tapestry of a community that has sculpted Barcelona’s identity to help make the city what it is today.

Table of Contents

Best Jewish walking tours in Barcelona

1. jewish quarter walking tour.

⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 based on 150+ reviews 

⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 

✅ Check latest price and availability

If you’re keen to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich Jewish heritage, you can’t miss the Jewish Quarter Walking Tour . This two-hour tour delves deep into the city’s Jewish roots. 

You’ll discover the oldest synagogue in Spain, visit the site of a medieval Mikveh, and learn about the rise and tragic fall of the Jewish community in Spain. The tour is peppered with anecdotes and stories that make the history of Barcelona come alive.

Moreover, walking through the narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This Barcelona city tour does a great job of highlighting how crucial the Jewish people were to the development of the Catalan capital. 

This journey isn’t just about landmarks, but also about understanding the fascinating tapestry of history that makes Barcelona the city it is today.

2. Walking History Tour of Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 based on 160+ reviews 

For those seeking a private and intimate experience of Barcelona’s Jewish history, the Walking History Tour of Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter is an excellent choice. 

This tour showcases unique architectural marvels and some of Barcelona’s hidden gems in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, not to mention it also includes a visit to the recently rediscovered medieval Mikveh.

The guide will acquaint you with significant local figures like the 13th-century Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet, further enriching your understanding of this ancient community.

3. Jewish Quarter of Barcelona Private Tour with Hotel Pick-up

⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 based on 30 reviews 

⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours 

Looking for convenience and comfort on your history expedition? Opt for the Jewish Quarter of Barcelona Private Tour with Hotel Pick-up . 

Offering hotel pick-up and a flexible schedule, including whether you’re looking to do this during the day or as an evening tour of Barcelona , this tour of the city’s rich Jewish history will take you to important sites such as Call Mayor and Call Menor, the Ancient Roman Wall, and La Plaza del Rey. 

Notably, this tour also provides an inside peek into the Ancient Synagogue, taking your Barcelona experience to the next level.

4. Barcelona Dreaming Walking History Tour Jewish Quarter and Old Town

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5

⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours 

Ready for a leisurely day exploring Barcelona’s past and present? The Barcelona Dreaming Walking History Tour Jewish Quarter and Old Town is a fantastic option. 

This four-hour journey combines history with the city’s vibrant food culture. It begins at Placa Sant Jaume, right next to Barcelona’s city hall, leading you to Spain’s oldest Synagogue, the unique Mikveh, and the ruins of the Jewish Alchemist’s House.

What’s more? You also get to explore the lively La Rambla boulevard and the colorful Food Market! It’s the perfect tour for foodies and history enthusiasts alike.

5. The Gothic Tour of Jewish Life in Barcelona

Looking for a tour that explores both past and present Jewish life in Barcelona? Then The Gothic Tour is your top ticket! Not only does this two-hour tour invite you to discover the captivating tale of Catalan Jews, but it also allows you to walk through the ancient Jewish neighborhood, El Call.

Here, you’ll unravel the history of local traditions, social relationships, and the lives of significant figures like the poet Moshe Natan, merchant Massot Avengena, and Rabbi Solomon Adret. On this enchanting walk through the Gothic Quarter, you’ll also gain exclusive access to Casa Adret, a stunning architectural relic that bears witness to Medieval Jewish life in the city.

But wait, there’s more! After exploring, you’re welcomed to enjoy a refreshing drink – whether it be cold water, a cup of tea, or a glass of local vermouth – on the rooftop of Casa Adret, taking in the breathtaking views of the Gothic Quarter. It’s the perfect way to conclude your insightful journey through Jewish Barcelona!

What is the old Jewish town near Barcelona?

The old Jewish town near Barcelona is actually right within the city itself, located in its bustling heart. Known as “El Call,” it’s Barcelona’s historic Jewish quarter, a hidden gem with centuries of history etched into its narrow lanes and timeworn buildings.

Originally established in the 12th century, El Call was home to one of the most significant Jewish communities in Medieval Europe. Its name derives from the Hebrew word ‘Kahal,’ meaning ‘community’ or ‘assembly.’ In Catalan, it is simply referred to as ‘Call,’ signifying ‘street’ or ‘passage.’

This neighborhood is an absolute wonder for history and architecture buffs. It’s a maze of winding, narrow streets filled with a fascinating blend of Gothic and Medieval buildings. 

Walking through El Call, you’ll stumble upon architectural marvels like the Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona, believed to be one of the oldest in Europe, and the ‘Mikveh’ medieval-era ceremonial bath. Time in El Call feels like a whisper from the past, a truly immersive experience in Barcelona’s rich Jewish heritage.

What is the name of the Jewish Quarter Barcelona?

The Jewish Quarter in Barcelona is known as “El Call”. It’s a name that’s both straightforward and steeped in rich historical significance, reflecting the area’s deep Jewish roots. For example, in the Middle Ages, El Call was the epicenter of Jewish life in Barcelona.

At the time, the area was bustling with scholars, merchants, and artisans. A walk through El Call today feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow winding streets, ancient stone buildings, and remnants of a vibrant Jewish community that once thrived here.

The quarter is home to notable sites such as the Sinagoga Mayor, one of the oldest synagogues in Europe, and, as mentioned, the ‘Mikveh’. In El Call, every corner holds a piece of the past, whispering tales of a time long gone yet preserved in the heart of Barcelona. 

For anyone interested in history and especially for anyone part of or with links to the Jewish community, don’t forget to add El Call to your Barcelona itinerary. It’s truly a historic treasure trove that’s not always on every tourist’s Barcelona itinerary.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Jewish Tours in Barcelona and Surroundings

Introducing the best girona, besalu and barcelona jewish tours.

JEWISH BARCELONA TOURS

Private tours of the Barcelona Jewish Quarter, with optional extensions to the Museum of History and the war memorials and cemeteries.

TOUR LENGHT : 1.5 to 4 hours

PRIVATE JEWISH TOURS OF GIRONA

Let us take you to Girona, where your private tour guide will show you around its Jewish Heritage.

TOUR LENGHT : 2 to 6 hours, depending on your choice.

JEWISH TOURS TO GIRONA AND BESALU

A day of Jewish Heritage and history, exploring the Girona Jewish Quarter in the morning, then continuing to Besalu for a lovely historical walk and lunch.

TOUR LENGHT : 8 hours.

BARCELONA TOURS THAT ALSO INCLUDE THE JEWISH QUARTER:

HALF DAY WALKING TOUR OF BARCELONA

BARCELONA CHAUFFEURED TOUR

BARCELONA TOUR WITH AIRPORT PICK-UP

GOTHIC QUARTER, SAGRADA FAMILIA & PARK GUELL

BARCELONA WALKING DAY TOUR

WALKING & CHAUFFEURED DAY TOUR

All our programs for more than one day can also incorporate the Barcelona Jewish Section.

MORE GIRONA TOURS

JEWISH GIRONA TOURS WITH DALI MUSEUM

Start your day visiting the Dali Museum in Figueres with skip-the-line access, then explore the Jewish Heritage of Girona and stay in Girona for lunch.

COSTA BRAVA AND JEWISH GIRONA DAY TOURS

Tour the Jewish Heritage of Girona in the morning, then head to Tossa de Mar in Costa Brava for a lovely lunch by the beach.

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Jewish Tour

By Adi Mahler

Adi Mahler Tour guide

Your private guide, for an unforgettable Jewish tour in Barcelona.

What to see in Barcelona

"I highly recommend taking a tour with Adi. He is a great storyteller with a heartwarming personality! Fascinating history that is most certainly missed without a tour guide"

"My 19 year old daughter and I both loved our tour with Adi! Adi knows his history and Barcelona. He shared his knowledge with warmth and humour. We toured the old Jewish ghetto, saw the remains of a 700 year-old synogogue, wandered through hard-to-find alleys and saw giant Roman pillars hidden in a small courtyard. It was a part of the city we would never have been able to fully appreciate without him. I highly Adi’s tour!"

"The Jewish Quarter tour of Barcelona given by Adi was most informative. He had an in depth knowledge of the area. I learned a great deal about the Jews time in Barcelona over the centuries. Adi was an excellent tour guide and provided intimate knowledge of Jewish Barcelona."

Explore Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with many faces, from fascinating jewish heritage to extraordinary Gaudi buildings, join me and explore the magic of this city.

Customized tours

Don't hestitate to contact me and together we created a tour that fits your desires.

The Jewish stories that need to be told.

Toldot Barcelona offers unique experiences and tours in the heart of the old Jewish quarter. Whether through the life story of a 13th century coral merchant, a private viewing of medieval Jewish documents in a 15th century archive, or through an intimate gastronomic experience that draws on diverse Jewish culinary traditions, we will connect you to the city, its Jewish history and make the streets come alive.

The Gothic tour

Tour of the jewish quarter and casa adret, the gothic tour, experience 1: the gothic tour (2 hr), tour call – the gothic tour.

Discover Jewish life in Barcelona, past and present.

The Story of the Jews in Spain is fascinating and complex, from the ‘golden era’ in the South, the glory of Cordoba and the tumultuous final in Granada. However, what was happening in Catalonia, this north eastern corner of the peninsula?  

Delve into the fascinating story of the Catalan Jews as we walk through the old Jewish neighborhood, el Call. We’ll e xplore Jewish life in the Barcelona A ljama, local traditions and social relationships. You’ll meet poet Moshe Natan, merchant Massot Avengena, Rabbi Solomon Adret, the significance of 1391 attacks and more, all in the enchanting streets of the Gothic Quarter. You’ll also get exclusive access to Casa Adret, an architectural gem and one of the few physical traces of Medieval Jewish life left in the city and hear more about Barcelona’s current community and projects happening in this community space.

To end this tour, we welcome you to join us for a refreshing drink on Casa Adret, whether it’s cold water, cup of tea or glass of local Vermut , you can enjoy incredible views of the city.

What you’ll get:

2 hour comprehensive tour of the Call and its Jewish history

Access to the old synagogue

Exclusive access to Casa Adret

Insight into Barcelona’s current community and projects at Casa Adret

A glass of local vermut or other refreshment, with views of the gothic quarter

*all entrance prices included

The complete gothic tour, tour of the jewish quarter, casa adret, entrance to la sinagoga antigua museum, the complete gothic tour, experience 2: the complete gothic tour (2-2.30 hr), enter another world in this jewish tour + museum combination..

Combining entrance to La Sinagoga Antigua and MUHBA Call museums*, we’ll delv e into the fascinating story of the Catalan Jews as we walk through el Call. Explore Jewish life in the Barcelona Aljama , learn where the RASHA served for nearly 50 years, and see few archaeological remains from the old Jewish neighbourhood. You’ll meet poet Moshe Natan, merchant Massot Avengena, Rabbi Solomon Adret, the significance of 1391 attacks and more, all in the enchanting streets of the Gothic Quarter. 

You’ll also get exclusive access to Casa Adret, an architectural gem and one of the few physical traces of Medieval Jewish life left in the city, where we welcome you to enjoy a refreshing drink and hear more about Barcelona’s current community and projects happening in this community space.

* available during opening hours

Exclusive access and tour of Casa Adret

Access to the museum of ‘ La antigua sinagoga’ . (Closed Saturdays)

Access to MUHBA Museum (only on Wednesdays and weekends)

The Archive Tour

Tour of the jewish quarter, casa adret, entrance to la sinagoga antigua museum and exclusive access to the old archives in the cathedral of barcelona, experience 3: the archive tour: call, casa adret and the cathedral. (3hr), a truly unique experience..

Since the Middle Ages, the Archive of the Cathedral of Barcelona has preserved thousands of documents containing the history of the city. A significant part of these relate to the Jewish community of Barcelona, which shared its daily life with the Christian community since the 9 th century. Thanks to a collaboration between Mozaika and the Cathedral of Barcelona, researchers found previously uninvestigated documents that help reconstruct the lives of those who lived in the Jewish quarter. These have been brought to light for the first time in history and a small collection is on display in the Cathedral’s original 15th century archive. What do the documents say? What type of information appears and how did researchers fill the gaps? Come and discover for yourself.

In this tour you’ll have privileged views of the cathedral in an area not accessible to the general public.  You’ll stand where the King and noblemen once stood, and get a unique and private viewing of Jewish documents that have been hidden for centuries. It is a truly unique experience.

Comprehensive tour of the Call and its Jewish history

Private access to a 15th century archive hidden in the Cathedral of Barcelona not accessible to the general public

Private viewing of Medieval Jewish documents

Access to the old synagogue museum (closed Saturdays)

Insight into Barcelona’s current community and cultural revival at Casa Adret

*please note this tour requires booking 3 days in advance.

Challah workshop and gothic tour, perfect your challah technique on this tour and workshop combination, challah workshop and tour (4 hours).

Perfect your challah technique on this tour and workshop combination!  Learn how to make challah in one of the oldest Jewish buildings in Barcelona, in the heart of the medieval Juderia – El Call. 

We will walk you through challah basics, then take you on a comprehensive tour of the old Jewish neighborhood. Explore Jewish life in the Barcelona aljama, local traditions, social relationships and the significance of 1391 attacks, before returning to Casa Adret to taste our creation.

After a 600 hundred year absence of Jewish life in the building, connecting to Jewish food and tradition in its space is a truly moving/meaningful experience. If only the walls could talk!

Challah workshop- basics from scratch

Girona: Unraveling the Girona’s Jewish quarter

A day trip into catalan jewish splendor, girona: unraveling the girona's jewish quarter, a day trip into catalan jewish splendor..

Located 100km north of Barcelona, on the ancient Roman Via Augusta, an important Roman crossroad, this small Catalan city hosts a surprising and incredible Jewish history. Famed as having one of the best preserved Medieval Jewish quarters in Europe, Girona was an important rabbinical center, an important center of Kabbalah, birthplace of Nahmanides, reaching cultural grandeur in the 13th and 14th centuries. Today, Girona is a leader in research and investigation of the history of the Catalan Jews.

Join this day tour through the stunning streets of Girona. First, we’ll deconstruct ideas of cohabitation, coexistence, and what daily life looked like for this Jewish community of the Middle Ages on a tour of El Call. Then, visit the Museum of Jewish History and its fantastic collection of medieval artifacts, learning about its active role in the restoration and investigation of Jewish History. You’ll then have some time in the afternoon to try some of the region’s incredible gastronomy and explore this incredible city before heading home together.

Comprehensive tour of the Jewish Quarter and Girona’s medieval city

Entrance and guided tour at the Museum of Jewish History

Viewing of medieval mikveh

Organised travel to and from Barcelona – Girona on a high speed train

Free time for lunch and for exploring this beautiful city

LARGER GROUPS

Looking for something different.

If you’re traveling with a group and looking for a meaningful experience in the old Jewish neighbourhood, organise an event in Casa Adret. We can custom your experience- combine a tour finishing with ‘Jewish Tapas’, try local vermut or Spanish kosher wines, or a private concert on the XII century patio. This experience is perfect for larger groups, educational programs or special family events. Contact us for more information!

Tour + Pica Pica

Enjoy Jewish tapas in one of Casa Adret spaces. Inspired by family recipes and exploration of the Jewish table, our dishes tell a story that cross worlds and generations. Combined with a tour of the old neighborhood, it is a fantastic experience.

*based on your interests, we will cater to you

Tour + concert.

Be enchanted by this medieval space, enjoy a refreshing drink and be taken to another world with traditional sephardic – mediterranean songs. First, we will take you on our 2 hour gothic highlights tour of the old Jewish quarter, followed by an exclusive access and private concert by local musicians in Casa Adret’s stunning patio.

Toldot Barcelona

Barcelona's Jewish Quarter Private Walking Tour

• Immerse in Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter as you stroll the city streets by foot
• Visit lesser-known sites and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage
• Benefit from your private guide’s undivided attention and expertise
• Convenient tour duration and departure from a central location
• See itinerary
• Professional local guide
• Private walking tour
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks
• entrances fees are not included
• Entry/Admission - Major Synagogue
• Mi Alcampo, C/ de Ferran, 46, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain Plaça Sant Jaume right outside the Simply Basic shop.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
• A minimum of 3 people per booking is required
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Mi Alcampo C/ de Ferran, 46, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain Plaça Sant Jaume right outside the Simply Basic shop. See address & details
• 1 Major Synagogue Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded The Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona is believed to be an ancient synagogue located in the centre of Barcelona, Catalonia,Spain. It has been described as one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• sjw10024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour and tour guide! Edo was an amazing tour guide - extremely knowledgeable as he grew up in Barcelona and also a great story teller. He had so many interesting facts and legends that he intertwined with the general history of Barcelona as we walked around the city. All four of us (parents and two teens) greatly enjoyed our time with Edo. He was very patient, kind and flexible too throughout our four hours together. Highly recommend! Read more Written April 25, 2024
• Frederick1235 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Interesting and engaging walking tour Adi was an engaging and friendly tour guide and answered all the questions we had . Would definitely recommend him for the Jewish Quarter tour. He also told me he does many other of the tours and is well educated. Read more Written January 20, 2024
• allar580 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect guide Our guide Dina is very knowledgeable, she is qualified historian. She was very nice and helpful. It was our great pleasure to have her as our guide. Read more Written October 19, 2023
• cherylkE9898DA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend this interesting and informative tour Wonderful and informative tour. Teresa was an excellent tour guide. She was very knowledgeable about Jewish History in Barcelona and Spain. We learned many interesting things during our walk through the areas. Highly recommend. Read more Written October 17, 2023
• C9559KLsr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well informed and so helpful! Maya came to get us at our hotel and gave us a wonderful tour of not only the Jewish quarter but other sites as well. She was terrific, well informed and helpful. Read more Written July 2, 2023
• Joseph W 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles jewish barcelona guide was excellent. she is very knowledgeable about jewish history in barcelona and pointed out things we would never have seen on our own. the tour was well worth the cost and i would highly recommend it Read more Written May 25, 2023
• SandraZ_13 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Informative Experience Deena was very knowledge and pleasant. Even though we had a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter earlier, we learned new things from this tour. Donna pointed out things we had not seen before that had Jewish significance. We had passed by the area of the old Jewish ghetto before without realizing its historical significance. I highly recommend this tour if you are interested in the Jewish history of Barcelona. Read more Written May 9, 2023
• U786GHbarryh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Experience Very enjoyable experience, the guide was passionate, prompt, and accommodating with all our needs. This is a great thing to do while you’re in Barcelona. Read more Written January 31, 2023
• kbarnhard25 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Learn about the Jewish history of Barcelona with Dina My daughter and I loved our tour with Dina Arad. She was so nice and accommodating, and very knowledgeable. She shared her love of Barcelona and it’s Jewish history with us, giving us so much information but in a digestible way. She also organized when she spoke in line with what she showed us very well. Highly recommend - enjoy your time with Dina. Read more Written January 25, 2023
• howiec292 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommended to understand Barcelona from the past to the present. This is our second time to Barcelona and our second time we used Barcelona dreaming for a walking tour. Dina was enlightening, filling us in on history of Europe and Barcelona. We highly recommend. Read more Written October 18, 2022
• estherandco 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Old Jewish Quarter in Barcelona We had such an interesting walking tour with Adi Mahler. He pointed out such interesting things that we would never have found on our own. His knowledge is incredible and he can answer any questions. Adi also has a great sense of humour Read more Written September 20, 2022
• jodirooney 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour with experienced guide We really had an amazing time with our tour guide Mar. She was very informed of the areas we toured and made the entire 5 hours very easy to navigate. She made excellent suggestions on lunch and snacks as well. The tour was just as the description stated. Excellent transportation service as well. Picked up in a very clean van with friendly driver. I would highly recommend. Read more Written September 15, 2022
• Tinaloboda 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Our families best day of touring spent with Dafna and Dina! Our family of 9 travelers (7 adults and 2 small children) spent the entire day seeing Barcelona with Dafna and Dina. All I could say was it was the most wonderful day. We spent the morning hours with Dafna walking through the old town and Jewish Quarter. Dafna was so knowledgeable about Jewish History and made everything come to life. She held our attention the entire time, took us to unexpected places, and was a real delight. After lunch (which Dina had arranged for us) we spent the remainder of the day with Dina touring the important sites of Barcelona. She was a real pleasure to deal with through all of the planning process, and the day we spent with her could not have been better. We felt so fortunate to have had seen everything we did, in the allotted time, and with two such special people! Read more Written August 8, 2022
• N8PWC 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Don’t Miss This Experiences The day before our tour we walked around the area of our hotel. We marveled at beautiful buildings and thoroughfares. During our tour we learned about what we had simply “looked at”without the knowledge imparted by Dina. We want to thank Dina, for the wonderful tour we had today. What impressed us was not only the valuable history she imparted but the manner in which she approached the subjects. She was very prepared and I could tell by the smile on her face that she really enjoyed her job. Her “stories” helped to bring the information to life. Her enthusiasm was contagious! Again, thank you very much for an enjoyable two hours…. Read more Written May 30, 2022
• julielE2657OJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The BEST week! Michal was amazing! She helped us plan our amazing honeymoon. We had the best tours and the guides were so knowledgeable, informative, fun and left everlasting memories. Our entire week was planned perfectly and stress-free. From the logistics of transportation to the different cities, and meeting our needs, Michal was spot on Read more Written May 24, 2022

More to explore in Barcelona

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Jewish History in Barcelona: What to See and Where to Go

Spain has an incredibly rich past and Barcelona – the capital and largest city of Catalonia – has a history that stretches way back to Roman times. The city was founded in 15 BC and in the thousands of years since countless groups of people have called the city home.

Among those groups that have come and gone, the Jewish community played an especially critical role in growing Barcelona as a cultural and business center of the Mediterranean coast. The city and wider region wouldn’t be the same without that influence.

Jewish history in Barcelona is a troubled one with highs and lows – but the story isn’t over. A number of congregations exist within the city today and they’re busy advocating on behalf of Jews in the city.

If you’re planning a visit to Barcelona and want to know more about the role the Jewish people played in shaping this great city, there’s a lot to see. Here’s a look at the best Jewish landmarks in Barcelona.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Montjuic

2. plaça sant iu’s hebrew tombstones, 3. ancient synagogue of barcelona, spain’s oldest synagogue, 4. remains of mikveh bath in barcelona, 5. the samuel ha-sardí inscription in barcelona, 6. look forward with the jewish film festival in barcelona.

Montjuic can literally be translated as “Jewish Mountain” and it served as a prominent Jewish cemetery for Barcelona’s large Jewish population. In fact, remains of this Mediaeval graveyard can still be seen today. Walking through the area is a sobering way to hear the echoes of Barcelona’s Jewish history.

The graveyard was active from around the 9th century until the end of the 14th when Barcelona’s Jewish population was driven from the city in 1391. From this very moment, the cemetery began to degrade and fall into disrepair.

Some theorize that the use of this cemetery helped the Jewish community to have relative immunity from the Black Death: the Jewish custom of cleaning their dead before burying them outside the city on this hill meant that Jews were not as affected by the terrible disease. This played a part in creating the belief that the Jewish community was responsible for the spread of the Black Death.

The mountain towers over Barcelona’s harbor and you can experience beautiful views from its summit after visiting the graveyard.

When the cemetery was abandoned, some of the tombstones were used in the construction of the buildings in the Gothic Quarter. In fact, it’s possible to still see these today, etched within the walls of the small Plaça Sant Iu which is found beside the Cathedral.

It’s a perfect visual metaphor for the way that Jewish heritage and history are deeply ingrained within the identity of Barcelona.

The Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona, Sinagoga Mayor in Spanish, is not only the oldest in Spain, but it’s also believed to be the oldest synagogue in Europe.

Found deep within the heart of the ancient Jewish quarter, you can enter this incredible structure from the Carrer Marlet and see where Barcelona’s Jewish population will have worshipped for centuries. It is possible to go inside of the Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona for a tour, and there are regular events that are hosted there.

Incredibly, there were rumors circulating years ago that the synagogue was to be converted to a bar. Thankfully, this did not come to pass, and an important part of Barcelona’s Jewish heritage has been protected.

The ancient Jewish quarter also had a Mikveh or Mikvah. This bath is used by Jewish people for a range of uses and serves to help restore ritual purity to both people and objects.

Many believe that some telltale signs of its remains still stand and that they can be found within a store! If you ask politely at the Olivé store on Carrer Palla, you can be taken to the back of the shop to see the columns and arches for yourself.

In Carrer Marlet a building was destroyed in 1920 and this process uncovered a medieval inscription that was devoted to rabbi Samuel ha-Sardí. There is still a level of debate around what the message actually says and how it should be translated, but it’s a touching reminder of just how deeply ingrained the Jewish faith once was within the city.

1492 is the year that the Jewish and Muslim populations in Spain were given a terrible ultimatum: convert to Christianity, leave, or die.

This dreadful event is a painful reminder of the human capacity for cruelty that can flourish if not checked. Now, 500 years later, a burgeoning Jewish community of 4,000 Jews can be found in Barcelona. They truly have come home.

This community is a positive one that advocates for Jewish rights regularly. An important way to celebrate their faith is through the annual Jewish film festival: The Festival de Cinema Jueu de Barcelona . This festival explores the many facets of Jewish life and it is open to everyone.

The event is sponsored by the city council and if the timing is right, it’s a great way for you to not only explore Barcelona’s Jewish history, but also its future.

We hope that this guide to Jewish history in Barcelona has been useful for you and that you enjoy getting to see these wonderful sights. Barcelona is a truly special place and the Jewish community is inextricably linked to it.

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• Tours in Barcelona

Jewish Barcelona Tour

Overview of the tour in Barcelona

During the Middle Ages, a prosperous and cultured Jewish community flourished in Barcelona. From their homes, from their shops, from their synagogues, from their customs of their rituals, we will talk as we walk through the old Jewish quarter. We will not only know this medieval Judaism but also how it was the return of the Jewish community to Barcelona until today.

This activity includes:

• Plaça de Sant Jaume

Meeting point

Plaza Sant Jaume

Meeting point Plaza Sant Jaume, in front of Costa Coffee (metro L4, stop Jaume I).

Things to note

Being such a specific theme tour, the number of reservations per day is small. For that reason, there is a possibility that they are the only ones registered for this day.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Barcelona Jewish Tour

Immerse in Barcelona Jewish history

Barcelona Jewish Quarter

Walking tour

Starting from 35€ / person (group tour)

Barcelona is a city rich in Jewish history that dates back to over 1,700 years ago. When exactly the first Jews arrived to Spain is an ongoing discussion among historians. It is widely believed that the first Jewish presence was around the 3rd Century (BCE). Over the centuries, the Jewish population in Barcelona grew steadily in numbers as well as in their political and religious significance. They lived in relative peace until 1391 when there was a brutal attack on the Jewish community, resulting in a dramatic end to the presence of Jews in Barcelona that would not see a reversal until the 20th Century.

During our tour we will bring back to life the story of the Jews here in Barcelona and show just how important Jewish people were to the city’s development and history.

Book your tour

We recommend staring in the indicated time . Feel free to write us if you wish to start at different time.

Times are in UTC

• Choose a date above to see available times.

The synagogue is closed on saturdays.

We don’t charge children under 12 years old, with the exception of synagogue entrance fees.

If you wish to have your tour at a different time or book more than 1 tour with us, please contact us: [email protected]

Additional information

Entrance to the synagogue is not included – 4€ per person (closed on saturdays).

Last minute booking

Frequently asked questions.

Do you charge children?

Why didn’t I get a reply to my inquiry?

We ALWAYS respond to all inquiries. If you have not received a response within a reasonable time frame (24 hours), please do two things: (1) Please check your junk folder. Sometimes our responses end up there for whatever reason. (2) If you cannot find the response there, something’s gone wrong! Please send us a message again and double check that the correct email address is in the text field. Thank you!

What is the difference between the Jewish tour and the weekly Jewish tour?

The main difference between the Jewish Tour and the Weekly Jewish Tour is the number of participants: the Weekly Jewish Tour is a group tour whereas the Jewish Tour is a private one.

Are all the guides Jewish?

We want to make sure you have the best experience, and hence we ensure that all of our guides are extremely knowledgeable of the tour content. However, in order to visit the Gaudi monuments, the City Hall of Barcelona requires us to hire specific, special certified tour guides. We cannot assure that these guides will be Jewish.

Is there food during the tour?

Do you buy entrances in advance?

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Revisiting jewish heritage in barcelona and the memory of sepharad.

During the Middle Ages Jewish life flourished in Sepharad as perhaps nowhere else. Jews were integrated, in the Call of Barcelona, the juderias of Cordoba and Toledo; in the cabalistic circles of Gerona or as advisors and physicians to kings.

With the Edict of expulsion of 1492, Jews were faced with a stark choice: leave or convert to Catholicism, and only some of these conversos continued to practice their tradition in hiding. Although most of the Jewish legacy was lost, one can revisit the rich culture and history while walking the streets where Jews once lived.

Once again , Jewish life blooms in Barcelona and other cities, with celebrations of B'nei mitzvah, Shabbat and the High Holidays, Film Festival, Hebrew study and new works of art.

Since 1997 Urban Cultours organizes Jewish tours in Barcelona as well as programs focused on past and present Jewish life, and helps plan events with authentic Jewish content for visitors from all over the world and for locals.

Urban Cultours project adds to initiatives that enrichen our culture and tradition, contributing to the continuity, development and promotion of Jewish identity.