HOUSE KNOWN AS "OLD SYNAGOGUE"

"An authentic medieval building that has retained its original layout of three stories of galleries overlooking a courtyard" (Mérimée database). This private mansion marks the presence of a small Jewish community in Mende between 1229 and 1306, the year of the expulsion of Jews from royal cities ordered by Philip the Fair. After 1310, the synagogue was assigned to a community of priests who remained there until the French Revolution. Sold as national property during the Revolution, the building was subsequently divided up. It now belongs to the Mende town hall, and its inner courtyard is accessible during guided tours of the historic center organized by the Tourist Office. Pick up a free Mende heritage brochure at the Mende Tourist Office or download it. More information on Mende's heritage (brochures, tour schedules & prices) can be found by clicking on the web link.