Spain - A Cultural Crossroads

THE SPAIN OF THREE CULTURES

and its monuments. The centre consists of a typical house, a garden-lookout point and the tower itself, a magnificent example of an Almohad fortification. Built in the 16th century, La Isla Palace stands on the site of what was the synagogue of the new Jewish quarter . In the patio there are several stars of David and a font with inscriptions in Hebrew. You will find another outstanding Jewish quarter in Extremadura in Hervas, with its steep and narrow streets and houses of chestnut wood and adobe. ESTELLA-LIZARRA (NAVARRE) Between the imposing castles of Zalatambor and Belmecher is the Jewish quarter, a symbol of the great commercial and cultural splendour enjoyed by the city from its foundation until the end of the 13th century. Fruit of this past can be seen in what remains of the Jewish presence in the buildings in the streets of San Nicolás, Rúa and Curtidores.

a SYNAGOGUE OF SANTA MARÍA LA BLANCA TOLEDO

disguises the majesty and luminosity of the interior, an extraordinary example of Toledo Mudéjar art. In the El Tránsito synagogue , today the Sephardic Museum , you can see walls richly decorated with inscriptions, as well as pieces of art and various objects used in Jewish religious ceremonies. CÁCERES Stroll through the narrow streets of the old Jewish quarter and admire the architectural nobility of this city in the Extremadura region, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Be sure to include the Baluarte de los Pozos Visitor Centre on your route. It occupies a 12th century defence tower from the top of which you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city

b ESTELLA-LIZARRA NAVARRE

Photo: Jewish Quarter Network

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