Documental movie: Toledo – the Hidden Secret

The city of Toledo was famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage; a city in which three major cultures met, intertwined and enriched each other.
The movie Toledo – the Hidden Secret is a meeting of the past and the present and reflects the history, culture and other aspects of former Jewish community life within the city’s walls. It is the story of the city, from the 4th century, covering the Moslem and the Christian periods and up to the time after the Inquisition.
In recorded interviews, historians describe the past, between the houses and the alleyways of Toledo’s Jewish Quarter and the unique local art – the mudejar.
The film describes the fascinating character of Samuel Halevy, scion of a distinguished Toledo family, who was advisor and treasurer to King Pedro I, until he fell out of favor and was imprisoned and tortured to death. His synagogue was confiscated and turned into a church; today it is known as El Transito Synagogue and houses the Jewish Museum.

The movie will tell the story of the Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, formerly known as the “big synagogue” and turned, in 1410, into a church.
The movie also touches on the life and work of the poet, Yehuda Halevi, as well as telling the story of a 13th century Jewish home in Las Bolas Street, where cellars have recently been uncovered, in which Jews hid from the Inquisition. This is the first time these cellars have been filmed.
Three descendants of the Maranos recall in interviews the stories of their families.

The movie uses special filming techniques to impart a mystical atmosphere; the changing light and golden sunset shroud the city in mystery.
The beauty of Toledo is revealed from the Pardor observation point from which the city spreads out like an exquisite work of art.
The movie is accompanied by especially composed music, with the addition of three musical pieces.
Photography and editing: Jack Matitiahu

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