GHETTO

The origins of the Jewish community in Ferrara date back to the 15th century, when the d'Este family welcomed Jews from Rome, Spain and Germany. In 1627 the Pontifical Government established the ghetto which was located between Via Mazzini, Via Vignatagliata and Via Vittoria. Five gates blocked access from sunset to sunrise; they were knocked down by the new kingdom of Italy in 1859. Today, the ghetto is a quiet neighbourhood, with pebble-paved streets lined with small houses, some of which have Spanish-style balconies.