Papal Jews

The Papal Jews, also referred to as the Pope's Jews, Avignonese Jews, or Comtadin Jews, were a Jewish community that resided under the rule of the Papacy. This community was established in the Comtat Venaissin and Avignon, which were ceded to the Holy See in 1274 and 1348, respectively. For centuries, the Papal Jews lived and thrived in these areas, which were under the administration of the Holy See until the French Revolution in 1791.

As a prominent Jewish community in the region, the Papal Jews, along with the Alsatian Jews, formed one of the only two authorized Jewish communities on what is now French territory. Notably, during their establishment, these areas lay outside the borders of the Kingdom of France. The Papal Jews played a significant role in the local business landscape, contributing to the economic development of the Comtat Venaissin and Avignon. Their unique history and experiences under Papal rule distinguish them as an important part of Jewish history in the region.