Sinagogue

We are in the Jewish Quarter of Barcelona, also known as El Call. It was the center of Jewish life in Barcelona during the Middle Ages, when the city was an important commercial and cultural center of the Mediterranean.

The Jewish Quarter was a vibrant area, full of synagogues, schools, stores and houses. In its narrow cobblestone streets, the daily life of the Jewish community flourished until the tragic year 1391, when Jews were blamed for poisoning water wells and causing the Black Plague. This marked the end of an era for Barcelona’s Jewish population, who were forced to abandon their homes or convert to Christianity.

One of the highlights of this neighborhood is the Mayor Synagogue of Barcelona, a historical treasure located on Marlet Street. This synagogue, of medieval origin, is one of the few remaining vestiges of Barcelona’s Jewish community before its expulsion. It was discovered at the end of the 20th century during archaeological excavations and is the oldest of the synagogues that have been found in the city.

It was built in the 13th century and served as a place of worship and meeting place for the Jewish community. Over the centuries it was adapted and renovated, but its walls retain the essence of medieval Jewish architecture, with details such as stone arches and an interior space that invites reflection and respect.