1275-2025: Queenship, Minorities, and Expulsion

Conference at the Tower of London

Historic Royal Palaces and Queen Mary University of London invite you to attend this jointly convened one-day conference on the occasion of the 750th anniversary of the Expulsion of the Jews from the towns ruled by Dowager Queen Eleanor of Provence.

Eleanor of Provence, Queen Consort to King Henry III, was an important figure during the Second Baron’s War and part of a long tradition of queens taking an active role in English medieval politics. However, Eleanor is less well-known for her part in the persecution of England’s Jewish Community.

In 1275, Eleanor expelled Jews from living in her dower lands - the lands assigned to her as Queen Dowager, after the death of Henry III. Eleanor’s actions were a precursor to the total expulsion of the Jews in England in 1290, by her son Edward I.

When

Monday 30 June

10:00 - 17:15

Ticketing information

Separate ticket (advance booking required)

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There is step free and wheelchair access at the conference location.

Events

Event information

This study day brings together expert historians from around the world to discuss Eleanor’s place in history and her role in the story of England’s medieval Jewish community. It will explore the wider contexts of Europe’s Jewish communities, and the wider theme of expulsion in the Medieval world.

The event is open to academics, students, cultural heritage professionals, and members of the public. It will explore the power and duties of medieval queens, the history of England’s medieval Jewish community, and expulsion in the Middle Ages.

See more information and the full agenda.