The Jewish Neighbourhoods project seeks to tell a new story about York’s medieval Jewish community, one which dispels myths and challenges preconceptions. Beginning with a focus on the Jewish residents of Coney Street in the mid-13th century, but extending back into the pre-1190 community, this is a story of resilience, co-operation and success.
What's it about?
Building upon the research conducted as part of the heritage strand of StreetLife, our project aims to present a more diverse narrative of York's past. Collaborating with York's current Jewish communities, we strive to illuminate previously untold stories and provide a fresh perspective on the history of York's Jewish residents. This has included the installation of a York Civic Trust blue plaque on the Next building to mark the site of the 13th-century synagogue and the house of Aaron of York.
Our research focus
After the tragic events of 1190 at Clifford's Tower, a resilient group of Jewish individuals returned to York, probably by around 1205. During the first half of the 13th century, this second Jewish community experienced growth and prosperity. Our project has uncovered new and compelling information, focusing on providing insights into the daily lives of both Jews and Christians during this time period. Additionally, we shed new light on the first medieval Jewish community in York, sharing stories of individuals' lives before the events of 1190.
Visualising the past
Our exhibition offered visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore medieval York as a new "stone city" and explore Coney Street during the mid-13th century. Through an interactive virtual reconstruction of the street, visitors were able to experience the physical surroundings visually, and learn about the dynamics that shaped interactions between different communities during that era. These reconstructions are accessible on this website.
A walking tour which is available to access online (see the button at the top of this page) takes the story beyond Coney Street and highlights landmarks significant to the Jewish story throughout the city.
What next?
Our project aims to enrich our collective understanding of York's past while honouring the lives and contributions of its Jewish residents throughout history. We hope to continue this work through further project funding applications, but are also delighted to be working with the community, the city council and developers to ensure this significant heritage is respected and celebrated today as part of the continuing story of York.