The Santa María la Blanca synagogue is located in the heart of the old Toledo Jewish quarter. The current monument was in the past one of the most important synagogues of the Toledo aljama. The original temple was built around the 12th century but after being destroyed by fire, various sources indicate that it was built again in 1250, reusing part of the old foundation.
The Synagogue of Santa María is one of the few that have survived on the Iberian Peninsula, becoming a singular example of the coexistence of Christians, Muslims and Jews. Erected in the center of the Jewish quarter in a time of Christian rule, its horseshoe arches and plasterwork show the influence of Muslim architects. The original building has survived to a large extent, however, the high gallery reserved for women or the sacred wall have disappeared due to the changes in use that the temple has undergone. From synagogue he passed It became a hermitage of the White Virgin after being converted to Christian worship when religious differences already made coexistence impossible. In the 16th century, Cardinal Siliceo founded a beguinage for repentant women that was called the Refuge of Penance. In this same period, A renovation of the temple was carried out, under plans designed by Alonso de Covarrubias, replacing the prayer wall with three small chapels decorated with scallops and in the highest part the emblem of Cardinal Siliceo. From the 18th century to the 20th century, the old synagogue had very diverse uses. In 1930 it was declared a National Monument, which helped to its preservation and enhancement to be converted into a cultural and visitable space as it is today.
Open Monday to Sunday
March 1 to October 15: 10:00 hrs- 18:45 hrs
From October 16 to February 28: 10:00 hrs - 17:45 hrs
The ticket offices will close 20 minutes before opening hours. closing.
December 24 and 31 open until 1:00 p.m. hrs