"Synagogue Santa Maria la Blanca" Santa Maria la Blanca Sinagoga Tip by Jefie

Santa Maria la Blanca is perhaps one of the best remaining symbols of "La Convivencia", the period of religious tolerance and cultural harmony that gave Toledo its nickname of "the city of three cultures". Located in a predominantly Christian country, the synagogue was designed and built by Moorish architects for the benefit of Toledo's Jewish community.

Santa Maria la Blanca was built towards the end of the 12th century and for about 200 years, it was the main Jewish temple in Toledo. In 1405, it was converted into a Catholic church. Its beautiful Almohad architecture is more akin to a mosque than a synagogue or a church, which makes it all the more interesting, especially since its original style has been remarkably well preserved over the years.

Because it isn't that big and there isn't that much to do inside except admire the architecture and read the few interpretive pannels, I thought the 3 Euros admission fees were a little steep. But because it holds such a special place in the history of Toledo, I'm really glad I got to see it first-hand. The synagogue is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:45 pm.

Address: 4, calle de los Reyes Catolicos
Directions: Just up the street from the Monasterio San Juan de los Reyes
Phone: 92 522 72 57