September 6 Free guided tour of the relics from the medieval synagogue in Lorca in the local archaeological museum

One of a series of September events in Lorca to celebrate European Jewish Culture

The numerous events in Lorca which are taking place in September in celebrating European Jewish Culture include this guided tour of the superb local archaeological museum on Saturday 6^th, with the focus logically enough on the artifacts which have been unearthed from the remains of the medieval synagogue and Jewish quarter alongside the castle.

Among the relics are items of ceramics, metal tools, documents, hanukkiyot and a remarkable collection of glassware including small lamps and lanterns.

Some of the jugs, bowls and glasses would not look out of place in a collection of Modernist pieces from the early 20^th century, and they show an extraordinary level of skill and craftsmanship. In all over 2,600 fragments of glass were found at the site next to the castle, and it has been possible to reconstruct 27 lamps.

Other items are related to the celebration of Hannukah, and one of the most unusual pieces is a cog wheel which belonged to a musical ratchet, an item which was necessary to drown out the name of the evil Haman during readings of the Book of Esther.

The tour is complemented by a visit to two of the museums containing the elaborate works of embroidery which are featured in Lorca’s famed annual Easter Week parades, and the emphasis will be placed on the close ties between the “Biblical processions”, which are based on the Old Testament, and Jewish history.

The tour begins at 11.00 outside the visitors centre in the old Convento de la Merced (Puerta de San Ginés, s/n) and although it is free of charge prior registration is required online here.

For more local events, news and visiting information go to the home page of Lorca Today.