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Ghetto Ebraico : The main square, Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, early on a Hanukkah morning.
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Ghetto Ebraico

Jewish Quarter

Historic Jewish neighborhood that originated the term 'ghetto'.

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What makes it special

Remarkable history

From the 16th century onwards, Jews were mandated to live here. It is the oldest enforced settlement, with Jews allowed to leave only between dawn and sunset. During the night, the two access bridges were shut and guarded.

Unusually tall houses

At its peak, more than 5000 people were crammed inside this small perimeter, prompting vertical construction and yielding some of the tallest apartment buildings of the era.

Origin of the word

The word 'ghetto' originated here, likely linked to 'giotto' or 'geto' meaning 'foundry' due to the neighborhood's proximity to a former cannon-producing foundry.

Five Synagogues

The Italian, Spanish, Levantine, Canton and, the oldest: the Great German Synagogue. Two of them can only be entered on guided tours or through self-guided access.

Ghetto Ebraico : In contrast to the exterior, the interior is rich and refined, highlighted by the striking carved walnut bimah.

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Your experience here

  • Stroll through a neighborhood that was once a restricted, overcrowded ghetto.
  • Browse authentic kosher shops rich with tradition.
  • Step inside two extraordinary synagogues hidden in plain sight.

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Visit the synagogues

Self-guided tour

With the help of an app, enjoy a self-guided visit of the ghetto and access two synagogues.

Guided tour

This captivating two-hour walking tour of the ghetto can be extended with an optional hour to visit two synagogues.

What to see nearby

These top spots are just a short walk from Ghetto Ebraico:

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