Sinagoga de Santa Maria la Blanca, Toledo
Location map and aerial view of Sinagoga de Santa Maria la Blanca. For a larger interactive view, see our Toledo Map.
Founded in 1203, the Sinagoga de Santa Maria La Blanca in Toledo is nearly two centuries older than the more elaborate and more crowded Tránsito Synagogue nearby.
History
The synagogue of "St. Mary the White" was designed and decorated by Mudejar architects (defined as Moors working on Christian soil on non-Islamic buildings). The Islamic influence is readily apparent in the lovely horseshoe arches and other features. It was completed in 1203.
In the early 15th century, the synagogue was stormed by a Christian mob led by St. Vincent Ferrer and converted into a church. In subsequent centuries it was used variously as a carpenter's workshop, store, barracks, and refuge for former prostitutes.
Today, the Sinagoga de Santa Maria La Blanca is beautifully restored and open to the public as a museum.
What to See
Thankfully, the original synagogue has survived its turbulent history mostly intact. The interior is divided into five aisles by four rows of seven horseshoe arches, each with elaborate Mudéjar decorations molded in plaster. The capitals are carved with vegetal decorations that suggest Almohad influences, while the dark red floor is dotted with decorative tiles.
The overall effect is very much that of a mosque rather than a synagogue, and it notably lacks a women's gallery. But the round windows and relatively plain exterior are in keeping with most European synagogues.
Reflecting the synagogue's later use as a church is a fine 16th-century altarpiece at the end of the center aisle.
Quick Facts
| Site Information | |
| Names: | Sinagoga de Santa Maria la Blanca; Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca; St. Mary the White |
| Location: | Toledo, Spain |
| Faiths: | Original/Primary: Judaism Current/Secondary: Christianity |
| Dedication: | Virgin Mary (the White) |
| Category: | Synagogues |
| Architecture: | Mudejar |
| Date: | 1203 |
| Status: | museum |
| Visitor Information | |
| Address: | Calle Reyes Católicos 2, Toledo, Spain |
| Coordinates: | 39.857092° N, 4.03069° W (view on Google Maps) |
| Lodging: | View hotels near this location |
| Phone: | 92-522-72-57 |
| Public transport: | Bus: 2 |
Travel Resources
- Toledo Map - our detailed interactive map of Toledo, plus hand-picked links to more
- Toledo Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, and book at the guaranteed lowest price
- Toledo Guided Tours - sightseeing tours and activities in Toledo
- Toledo Car Rentals - enjoy more travel freedom by picking up a car in Toledo
Article Sources
- Personal visit (April 2, 2007).
- The Rough Guide to Spain
- Frommer's Spain
- Spain.info.
Last updated on December 20, 2010.
