Cementerio Judío (Jewish Cemetery), Segovia

The Jewish Cemetery holds significant historical and cultural value as the burial ground of the city's Jewish community. Although specific dates are not attributed to the cemetery, it is believed to have served the community before their expulsion from Spain in 1492.

Located just outside the city walls of Segovia, on the southern slope of the Clamores River valley in an area known as 'The Pinarillo,' the Jewish Cemetery offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Today, remnants of tombs and carvings can be observed in the limestone, providing a tangible connection to the rich history of the Jewish community in Segovia.

The cemetery comprises two distinct types of tombs. The first consists of large burial chambers with access corridors carved into the rock within the woodland area. The second type encompasses tombs carved out of the limestone rock on the valley slopes, resembling more traditional grave plots and stones.

All the graves are aligned along an east-west axis, and the skeletons found within them were discovered lying supine and facing east. Some of the graves exhibit carved head and shoulder shapes, while others have a simple rectangular design.

During the 13th century, the Jewish community in Segovia thrived. However, conflicts between Pedro the Cruel and Henry of Trastamara from 1366-69 placed a strain on Castilian communities. Segovian Jews faced attacks and confiscation of their possessions, while King Henry canceled debts owed by Christians to Jews. Antisemitism became rampant in Segovia, culminating in the expulsion of the Jewish population from Spain in 1492 after being forced to convert to Christianity and endure segregation and accusations of host degradation.

Access to the Jewish Cemetery is free, and it is signposted from the Jewish Quarter. The cemetery is illuminated until midnight, allowing for evening visits.