A small town dating back to Roman times, Obidos is famous for its medieval castle, its ramparts and the small streets that line them.

The Jewish presence in Obidos goes back a long way. They lived mainly along the Rua Direita , close to the church of Santa Maria. The Jews practised a wide variety of trades, particularly in the crafts, commerce and scientific fields. This diversity of activities and studies is a reflection of the city under the protection of the court, which hosted a university of arts and sciences.

A medieval building near the Church of Misericordia appears to be a former synagogue or Jewish cultural meeting place. It has now been converted into a hotel, the Torre de Maneys .

Sources : Encyclopaedia Judaica