Aragon Guide

• 

  Tarazona's Jewish history

One of the areas with a highest number of signs of Jewish identity were the very dynamic Jewish communities of Tarazona, Borja, Mallen and Magallon. Among these, Tarazona is distinguished as a jewel of Mudejar art, where there has been extraordinary progress in the recovery of the Jewish Quarter in recent years. The main synagogue and its entrance patio from the 14th century have been recently discovered. Also, in the Cathedral Archive almost a hundred of parchments have been rescued in the covers of the books containing Biblical and Talmudical texts in process of restoration.

The Association of Friends of Jewish Culture of Tarazona, integrating all the social layers of the town is named for the renowned 13th century financier Moshe de Portella, who was born in the town. The Association celebrates an annual Festival known as "Sepharad, the Return to Tarazona", and has recently opened a Centre of Interpretation about the Jewish culture of Aragon. In recognition of these efforts, it has been included in the Network of Jewish Quarters Sepharad beginning in the year 2000.

Source: Diputacion Provincial de Zaragoza