Medieval Jewish London

An important seminar was held in London at the Barbican Centre to shed light on the story of the Jewish community in England during the medieval period which is little known.  The Barbican was chosen because the very site sits on top of the former medieval Jewish cemetery that was established outside London’s city walls at that time.  For many years it was the only Jewish cemetery in England until permission was given for other cemeteries to be established as Jewish communities were formed elsewhere. 

A group of volunteers created ‘The Jewish Square Mile’ charity to work on marking out the Jewish cemetery, and carrying out research to understand better the situation of the Jewish population that the cemetery served.  The charity were the organisers of the day long Barbican event inviting a range of academics to address different aspects of Jewish life covering the daily lives and dramas of those times.

Participants had the opportunity of ‘meeting’ Jewish characters from the period discussing what the Jewish experience was like for them personally, and how they lived alongside their Christian neighbours while being in effect the property of the ruling monarch. 

The medieval Jewish community came to an end in 1290 when they were expelled due to rising antisemitism.   Jews would not return to England officially until the 17^th century.  However, many signs remain to this day of the Jewish medieval presence, and these were highlighted during the event.

It is hoped that the Day will inspire more people to explore this fascinating aspect of British history.  

The Foundation for Jewish Heritage was represented at the event.