September visiting times at the medieval synagogue of Lorca

The synagogue is the best-preserved in Spain from the period before 1492

During the month of September the city of Lorca is taking part, as it does every year, in the Europe-wide celebration of Jewish cultural heritage (which in 2025 goes under the slogan of “The People of The Book”), and among the many activities available during the month it should not be forgotten that the remains of the medieval synagogue and Jewish quarter within the castle walls can be visited every day.

The synagogue of Lorca is the best-preserved in Spain from the period prior to the expulsion of the Jews, along with the Moors, in 1492, and the “hejal” where the holy scriptures were housed, and the “bimá” (pulpit) can still be seen. The site was not discovered until 2023 and the museum was not opened until as recently as 2012, while in the district around it 18 separate homes have been identified and documented so far.

In one area of the synagogue more than 2,600 fragments of glassware were found, making it possible to partially reconstruct 27 lamps and lanterns which can now be seen in the superb Lorca archaeological museum. Other relics include janukkiot, ceramics, buckles, rings and coins.

Visits to the synagogue and Jewish quarter are available during September every day at 11.00 and 14.00 as well as at 16.30 on Saturdays, and guided tours are held at 11.00 on both Saturday and Sunday. Admission costs just 4 euros for over-16s and 3.75 euros for 13- to 16-year-olds, and online booking is required here.

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