In the context of the Portuguese Jewish Heritage Guide project that I am developing, to be launched in the middle of next year, I have visited the Synagogue Ohel Jacob yesterday. In addition to the courtesy with which I was welcomed and the enthusiasm of my guides (the nice Adriana and Leonor) in reviling and showing of their “treasures”, I became more aware about the history of the presence in Portugal and the principles of this movement in Judaism. Among these “treasures”, for some of which he was prepared, due to readings prior to the visit, I was surprised by an Ashkenazi Torah, visibly damaged by the fire, which was caused by the infamous “Crystal Night” in Germany in 1938 and brought to Lisbon by Jews who would later be linked to this asquenaze based community. I had visited it a few years ago, but that experience had not been as enriching as this one. No doubt it’s worth it visit the Ohel Jacob Synagogue, which is possible through contact with the responsible.

Jorge Martins
July 23, 2019