Spain / Aragón

Teruel

Teruel became important as the supply center for Catalan-Aragónese troops sent out to conquer Valencia. The Jews here became specialized in weaving wool. The Lonja, or produce exchange, was open to both Jewish and Muslim traders.

The local museum (Museo Provincial) has an interesting Hanukkah lamp made in the local green ceramic. Discovered in 1977 during an excavation in the old Jewish quarter near Ambeles castle, it has the traditional form, with eight holders for the candles synonymous with this festival commemorating the purification of the temple in Jerusalem in 165 C.E. Note the geometrical drawings and the alternating colors, showing the Jewish community’s adaptation to the region’s artistic techniques and contribution to the town’s prosperity.