Toledo: El Transito Synagogue

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This synagogue was built in 1357 under the direct patronage of Simon Ha-Levi, who was Treasurer of King Pedro the Cruel. The king later executed his treasurer. Nevertheless, there are inscriptions in Hebrew glorifying God, King Pedro, and Simon Ha-Levi. There are also some in Arabic. The exterior of the building shows a mixed stone and brick construction, often seen in Muslim buildings in Spain. The elaborately worked gesso, or plaster, ornamented with stylized caligraphic inscriptions and floral and geometric motifs is typical of Islamic art of Al-Andalus, as we have already seen. At one time these plaster walls were painted in brilliant colors, and with their lush patterns resembled the fabulously luxurious textiles produced in Al-Andalus. This kind of elaborate surface ornamentation became typical of Mudejar art, or the art of Muslim tradesmen working for Christian and Jewish patrons.