MUHBA El Call is a compact museum on Placeta de Manuel Ribé in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella, devoted to the city’s medieval Jewish community. Its displays trace Jewish life in Barcelona through the 14th century, including the community’s place in the city and its relationships with rulers and Christians. Interactive screens introduce historic sites in the neighbourhood, while a film gives an overview of the community’s history. Allow about an hour if you want time to read the displays and explore the exhibits.
The community and its place in Barcelona
MUHBA El Call focuses on Barcelona’s Jewish community up to the 14th century. The displays explain when Jewish residents arrived, their role in city life and their relationships with the rulers and Christian community. They also introduce people whose lives and work contributed to society in that period.
The museum provides a starting point for understanding El Call, Barcelona’s historic Jewish quarter. Its subject is the community and its life in the city, rather than a broad survey of Barcelona’s history.
Exhibits and interpretation
Interactive screens at the entrance use a map of the district to point out other places with historical connections. Inside, displays include information about Jewish life alongside archaeological remains and objects. The museum is small, with exhibition rooms on two levels.
A film presents an overview of the history and runs continuously in different languages. Wall text is available in Catalan, Hebrew, English and Spanish. If you want to take in the written material as well as the exhibits, plan for around an hour. The film’s volume can be distracting in the galleries.
FAQ
How long does a visit to MUHBA El Call take?
Allow about an hour if you want to read the displays and explore the exhibits.
What does MUHBA El Call cover?
The museum presents the history of Barcelona’s Jewish community up to the 14th century, including its place in city life and relationships with rulers and Christians.
What languages are used in the exhibits?
Wall information is available in Catalan, Hebrew, English and Spanish. The film is presented in multiple languages.
