Gazing upon the Baloiço do Olival, can you sense the echoes of history? This seemingly simple swing set holds a connection to a vibrant past. The Baloiço do Olival sits near where a Jewish quarter once thrived. In 1386, King João I decreed that the Jewish community of Porto consolidate in a single area. This new Jewish quarter, the Judiaria Nova do Olival, took root in an area previously occupied by olive trees. The quarter was walled and had two gates for entry and exit. One gate opened onto the Largo da Porta do Olival, the other toward the Escadas da Esnoga. The heart of the Judiaria Nova do Olival was its synagogue, situated near what is now the Nossa Senhora da Vitórial Church. The Jews of Porto established themselves, building houses and businesses. They even assimilated Jewish families who had been expelled from Castile in 1487. But their prosperity was short-lived. In 1496, King Manuel I issued the edict of expulsion. Many Jews left Portugal, while others converted to Christianity, becoming known as New-Christians. The houses of those who refused conversion were given to Old Christians. Later, the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória was built on the site of the old Jewish quarter. As you swing on the Baloiço do Olival, consider the ebb and flow of history that has shaped this place. From olive grove to Jewish quarter to the modern day, the echoes of the past linger in the air.
Baloiço do Olival
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