Inquisition House - Jewish History Interactive Center

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Évora > Reguengos de Monsaraz > Monsaraz > Centro Histórico

Location

Situated in the Historic Centre of Monsaraz, this house is located on one of the typical streets of the medieval village. As you walk through its narrow streets with their characteristic incline, you will come across this building, near the area of the old alcáçova (citadel) and at the end of Rua de Santiago. Its location allows for complete immersion in the historical atmosphere of the locality.

The Building and Its Name

The House of the Inquisition carries a name that echoes a local tradition, but its past function might be more subtle than the title suggests. Despite the designation that has been maintained over time, the building was not a formal Inquisition court. It is more likely to have served as lodging for an official of the Holy Office or as a temporary place of stay for accused individuals, before they were transferred for trial in larger courts, such as that of Évora. Regardless of its exact function, the name serves as a starting point to explore a complex part of history.

Jewish History in Monsaraz

This interactive centre is dedicated to uncovering the Jewish presence in Monsaraz, a legacy that dates back centuries. Documents attest to the existence of a thriving Hebrew community in the village as early as the 13th century, notably through the charter granted by D. Afonso III in 1276. The space invites visitors to learn about local Jewish history and heritage, based on documents and artifacts. Furthermore, one of the areas is dedicated to the so-called "Religions of the Book", addressing Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, allowing for a broader understanding of cultural and religious interconnections.

A Space for Memory and Reflection

The House of the Inquisition is a place of sensations and learning about the adversities that many people faced throughout history because of their beliefs. A section, called "Past/Future Space", displays images and testimonies that illustrate the suffering resulting from religious conflicts, the Inquisition, and the Holocaust. This space seeks to exemplify the difficulties experienced by men and women who maintained their deepest convictions, becoming a catalyst for understanding the past and building a more conscious future. The centre also serves as a support point for researchers and students, fostering historical research and the continuous interpretation of local history and its people.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt