Provence: Full Day Private Guided Tour of Jewish Sites (Avignon and Luberon)
● Discover one of France's oldest synagogues and the historic Jewish cemetery, offering a unique glimpse into the deep-rooted Jewish presence in Provence and the 'Pope's Jews'.
● Walk through the ancient Jewish quarter of Avignon and other villages
● Visit the stunning Baroque synagogue of Cavaillon and its museum, delving into the life of the Jewish community in Provence across the ages.
Deepen your understanding of Jewish history in Provence during the papacy's residence in Avignon (1309-1377). While Jews faced persecution and discrimination across France and Europe, those living in these papal territories, known as the "Pope’s Jews" or "Jews of the carrière," found a unique form of protection. Under the authority of the Avignon popes, they received special rights and privileges in exchange for specific taxes and obligations, distinguishing their experience from that of Jews elsewhere.
With your licensed guide, you will explore the most iconic Jewish sites in Provence. Highlights include Avignon and its ancient Jewish quarters, a lasting testament to the Jewish community during the papal era. A visit to the Palais des Papes will further shed light on the complex relationship between the papacy and the Jewish population. (this visit is optional as it is not a jewish site but if you wish to visit it let us know).
Cavaillon is another essential stop, where you’ll visit its beautiful synagogue, an 18th-century Baroque masterpiece with a medieval staircase (only remnant of the Medieval building), along with a museum that explores the life and history of Provence's Jewish community.
Another important site is Carpentras, home to one of the oldest synagogues in France, as well as its historic Jewish cemetery, among the oldest in Europe. These sites will provide you with a unique opportunity to gain insight into the centuries-old Jewish presence in the region.
By the end of your tour you'll be driven back to your place of stay in Provence.
*Avignon may be replaced my Isle-sur Sorgue.
*Please note that the Carpentras synagogue is closed on weekends and may be closed randomly on other days of the week.
*Similarly, the times for entering and visiting other Jewish sites are very restricted. We do everything possible to ensure that you can visit as many sites as possible, considering the time constraints as well.
*This tour includes an English-speaking driver and a licensed guide specialized on Jewish History.
*Please note that this itinerary is available from multiple departure cities and hotels throughout Provence.
*Kindly be aware that while our drivers adapt to your preferences and pace during the tours, this particular tour has restricted visit times that require a specific schedule to ensure you don’t miss any visits.
*If you have any specific interests related to Jewish history, please let us know. We would be delighted to customize the experience to match your preferences!
*If you wish to visit the Camps de Milles in Aix (WWII history) and the synagogue in Marseille please note that these have to be visited on a separate day than the towns like Carpentras, Cavaillon and Avignon, we have a tour focused on these sites.
Included
● Knowledgeable English speaking driver
● Licensed English speaking guide expert on Jewish History
● Mercedes Class V
● Tickets to the sites visited
Not Included
● Lunch
● Gratuity to the driver and guide
● Tickets to any extra activity other that the ones stated on the itinerary
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