You don’t know Toledo!

This is Toledo:

Picture credit: L. Gray

Toledo (aka the Imperial City) was once the capital of Spain.  And I bet you didn’t know that the Toledo, Ohio - Toledo, Spain connection is the oldest formally recognized sister city relationship in the world.  Let’s see what else we can learn about this impressive city (about 50 miles south of Madrid).

The city was well protected by a double wall on the north and the Tagus river on the south.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich collection of historical monuments and cultural heritage.  They are known for swords and damascene jewelry (so no one NEEDS either of those things . . .). But unfortunately, Toledo is likely most famous for being the birthplace of the Spanish Inquisition.

Statue of King Charles V dominating a Protestant

As with many former world powers, Spain was also known for religious persecution.  In fact, the Spanish Inquisition lasted for over 350 years.  During this time, in an attempt to combat heresy and unify the nation, Jews, Muslims, and other so-called non-believers were given 3 months to decide it they wanted to convert to Catholicism or leave the country.  Some “false Christians” were found to have build underground synagogues in their homes to continue their form of worship in private.  When arrested, they were subjected to elaborate forms of torture (and they now have a museum dedicated to this brutality). 

Place where procession of guilty began down to public square

Amazingly, one of the former nicknames for Toledo is the City of Three Cultures.  And the remnants of the 3 distinct parts of town were something to see. Our guide pointed out Hebrew insignia as we walked through the area.  We noted how the style of architecture varied from one area to another and then how there was a blending of styles in other ways.  Fascinating to see how quickly things can change from tolerance to persecution.

One last interesting story from Toledo. Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the new world was in jeopardy. His request for financing had been rejected by the Kings of France, Portugal, and England.  When Queen Isabella heard of it (legend has it) she disguised herself, went to the home of a Jewish moneylender and sold her jewels to finance the voyage.  Of course, that could also not be true (according to legend).  But it was a great way to reveal Casa Del Judo (House of a Jew).

<House of a Jew>

Our last stop (before an amazing lunch in a cellar followed by shopping for aforementioned swords and jewelry) was a major square where church and state met - literally!

Below the top arches on this Cathedral of Toledo is a depiction of the Last Supper

This impressive Gothic cathedral was built in the 13th century and is known for its stunning architecture