Reasons to Visit Iberia

by Kosher River Cruise Kosher Tour Operator

We've been on more than a few Glatt Kosher Holidays in the past, travel vacations that let us explore the breadth and depth of Jewish history, heritage, culture and cuisine in different parts of the world. While the current global pandemic has rendered travel unsafe at the moment, that only means that we’ll have to reschedule our expeditions, not give up on them completely. The future may not be foreseeable, but there’s nothing wrong with having a little hope.

The Iberian Peninsula has a multitude of great travel destinations, and the two countries that occupy it (Spain and Portugal) are sources of much Sephardic Jewish history. Visiting Iberia in a future vacation will guarantee that you have an enriching historical experience. Here are a few highlights that you might enjoy.

The Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue

This historic synagogue was established in Porto, Portugal near the beginning of the 20th Century. With the vision of Captain Barrios Basto and the funding of various Jewish donors around the world, this synagogue is a must-see whenever you go on kosher tours through Portugal.

The University of Salamanca

The Spanish city of Salamanca is known for its old university, one that has continued to serve students across Europe for centuries. In fact, it is one of the oldest places of learning in the continent, and was also the host to various Jewish scholars in antiquity.

The City of Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal has plenty of great travel destinations, from the Belem Tower to the Santa Justa Lift. Like many places in Iberia, it also has a rich Jewish history, as evident by the preserved quarter that can be found there. If you want a good place to start your kosher adventures through Iberia, then Lisbon is the place to go.