Blue plaque for medieval synagogue unveiled

York Civic Trust installed the plaque on the Next building on Coney Street to mark the site of a 13th Century synagogue

The first blue plaque celebrating York's Jewish heritage has been unveiled.

York Civic Trust installed the plaque on the Next building on Coney Street on Monday to mark the site of a 13th Century synagogue.

The synagogue was at the heart of Jewish medieval life in the city at a time when York was one of the most important Jewish centres in the country.

Dr Duncan Marks of the Civic Trust said: “Just as the city today is culturally diverse, so too was our past, and should be celebrated."

The plaque has been the result of a research project tied to a government-funded initiative called StreetLife to explore the hidden histories behind high streets.

Researchers at the University of York delved specifically into Coney Street in York as part of a focus on the importance of the medieval Jewish community in the city.

The study revealed that the synagogue on Coney Street existed between 1205 and 1290.

It was built following an anti-Semitic massacre at York's Clifford's Tower in 1190 in which York's entire Jewish community were killed.

After the attack, a new Jewish community was established, which historians believe would have come together at this synagogue for scholarly debates, Shabbat prayers and holiday celebrations.

The plaque was unveiled by Rabbi Dr Elisheva Salamo, York's first resident rabbi in 800 years.

Speaking of the medieval synagogue she said: "I hope it served only as a spiritual refuge and teaching centre for all who dwelt in the city of York."

York's first rabbi in 800 years, Rabbi Dr Elisheva Salamo (left) and Dr Louise Hampson (right) from the University of York, helped unveil the plaque

Dr Duncan Marks of the Civic Trust said: “This is the first blue plaque celebrating Jewish heritage in York.

"Whilst shopping and commercialism is sometimes said to be our new religion, this plaque shows us that over the centuries our shopping streets were used by a wide range of fascinating people and uses, enriching us all and something to be proud of."

The plaque also pays tribute to an important Jewish figure in York called Aaron whose home was also on Coney Street, just in front of the synagogue.

In 1236, Aaron assumed the position of arch-presbyter, or justiciar, of the English Jews, a role appointed by the Crown to oversee the financial administration of the Jewry in England.

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