Ligação Judaica por Portugal is an educational and cultural association dedicated to preserving, researching, and strengthening the connection between the Jewish people and Portugal.
Our Mission
Ligação Judaica por Portugal — “Jewish Connection to Portugal” — was founded on the deep belief that Portuguese-Jewish history is not merely the past, but a living identity that continues to pulse in the hearts of many people around the world.
The association operates in two spaces: Israel and Portugal. In Portugal, we preserve memory and collaborate with local institutions. In Israel, we assist the descendants of the exiles in rediscovering their identity.
Our Values
- Historical Memory — Accurate and careful documentation of Portuguese-Jewish history.
- Reconciliation and Brotherhood — Promoting intercultural understanding and reconciliation between communities.
- Preserving Tradition — Passing on the Sephardic heritage to future generations.
- Transparency and Integrity — Transparent and ethical non-profit operations.
What We Do
- Strengthening the Jewish and Israeli connection to Portuguese culture
- Heritage tours of Jewish Portugal
- Publishing research papers and articles
- Lectures, conferences, and cultural events
- Collaboration with museums and research institutions
A Brief Background
Jews have lived in Portugal since Roman times. Communities in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and other cities flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries. In 1496, King Manuel I of Portugal ordered the expulsion of Jews — but most were forcibly converted and remained as Crypto-Jews. For many generations, remnants of Jewish identity were kept alive in secret.
Today, our association works to bridge the Portuguese identity with Jewish roots and to help those who wish to embrace their heritage once again.
Contact Us
📧 info@aljp.pt |