Mikveh de Coimbra

About the museum

The Mikveh de Coimbra was discovered by chance in 2013, when the need to inspect sanitation infrastructure in an enclosed space under a stairwell led to the forcing of a small metal door on the ground floor, revealing a surprising grotto. The structure dates back to the medieval period and lies within the area of the first Jewish quarter, abandoned from 1370.

It lies in the area of the former judiaria (Jewish quarter), bounded by the present-day streets Martins de Carvalho (formerly Rua das Figueirinhas), Corpo de Deus and Visconde da Luz (formerly Rua do Coruche). Carved into the rock about three metres deep, it is remarkably well preserved and still has running water and the two spaces essential to its function: the antechamber for preparing the bath and the pool, which is reached by seven steps that in the Jewish religion symbolise the seven days of creation.

The mikveh is a fundamental structure of Jewish communities, essential for observing the laws of spiritual purity. Purification baths were important in the lives of medieval Jews and remain relevant for practising Jews today. The site is managed by the Museu Municipal de Coimbra.

Highlights

• Medieval ritual bath carved into the rock, about three metres deep
• Pool reached by seven steps, with running water
• Antechamber for preparing the bath
• Former Jewish quarter of Coimbra

Permanent exhibition

• Mikveh de Coimbra – banhos de purificação judaicos – Visit to the medieval ritual bath, with the antechamber and the pool carved into the rock.

Operated by

Município de Coimbra – Museu Municipal de Coimbra

Admission & discounts

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit