Discover Palma’s Jewish Quarter – A Historical Walking Tour

"Step closer, ladies and gentlemen – today we journey into Palma’s hidden past. Not through books, but step by step, with open eyes and attentive ears."

This is how I often begin my tours when we gather at Plaça de Cort, right in front of Palma’s ancient olive tree. Here begins a path that leads us into a long-forgotten chapter of Mallorca’s history: the Jewish Quarter of Palma, also known as the Call.

Two Names, One History: Call Menor and Call Major

In the Middle Ages, Palma’s Jewish community was divided into two areas: the Call Menor and later the Call Major. As we stroll along streets like Carrer de les Monges, Argenteria, or Plateria, we step into a world of voices, spice aromas, and sacred books – a vibrant life now faded into stone.

Call Major: Between Protection and Isolation

After 1300, the community relocated to the Call Major. Jews could live and sleep there, but were forbidden to work outside its walls. Carrer del Sol was a main artery, and the quarter was enclosed with four gates. A memorial plaque on the ground marks its memory today.

Montesión Church: A Silent Witness

In Calle de Montesión stands the church of the same name, built upon the foundations of the main synagogue. If you look closely, you may spot folded notes tucked between the stones – quiet prayers, reminiscent of those left in synagogues throughout the world.

1391 – A Tragic Day in History

On August 14th, 1391, a violent mob stormed the Call Major – over 300 Jews were killed. Many fled; others were forcibly baptized. The descendants of those converts, known as Chuetas, lived under social stigma for centuries to come.

Rediscovery and Pride Today

Today, Palma is part of the Red de Juderías de España (Network of Jewish Quarters in Spain), and proudly celebrates the European Day of Jewish Culture. Organizations like Jewish Mallorca now offer respectful, insightful tours of this storied past.

From Museum to Memory

The walk continues through Calle Morey and Portella to the Museu de Mallorca, where Jewish artifacts are on display. Finally, we reach Calle Call and Costa del Teatre – the symbolic end to our journey through a quarter that still whispers its secrets.

"And now, ladies and gentlemen, I invite you: close your eyes for a moment. Breathe in the air. Hear the footsteps on the cobblestones. Perhaps – just perhaps – you’ll still hear the echo of history."