In 1190, York witnessed one of the most tragic events in English Jewish history. Known as the “Masada of York,” it reflects the severe anti-Semitism of medieval England. This event unfolded at Clifford’s Tower, where many Jewish people chose death over forced conversion or violence.
Background of the York Massacre
In 1190, anti-Semitic tensions in England were rising, fuelled by religious intolerance and rumours. A mob of local citizens, stirred by these tensions, attacked the Jewish community.
Many sought refuge in the royal castle, specifically at Clifford’s Tower. The tower, which stood as a symbol of power and safety, became a place of terror.
A large group of Jewish people were forced to choose between conversion to Christianity or death. Many, unable to escape, chose death over forced conversion.
The events marked one of the darkest chapters in England’s medieval history. Today, Clifford’s Tower serves as a poignant reminder of this tragedy, offering a space for historical reflection and education.
Timeline of Events
The York Massacre lasted two days, beginning on March 16, 1190 and ending on March 17, 1190. The first day saw the mob attack Jewish homes and businesses throughout the city. As the violence escalated, many Jews sought refuge in Clifford’s Tower, which was part of the royal castle. The tower, typically a symbol of safety, became a place of entrapment for the Jewish community.
On March 17, as the mob surrounded the tower, the trapped Jews were given an ultimatum: convert to Christianity or face death. Those who refused conversion chose to commit suicide rather than be killed by the mob or convert. The violence culminated with the deaths of about 150 Jews, marking the end of the two-day siege.
Aftermath of the York Massacre
The aftermath of the York Massacre left deep scars on the Jewish community. The massacre decimated the local Jewish population, and many survivors fled the city, leaving York’s Jewish community in ruins.
In the immediate aftermath, King Richard I issued a royal order to investigate the event, but no significant action was taken against the perpetrators. The attackers faced no legal consequences, and anti-Semitic sentiment continued to grow across England.
The massacre, alongside similar incidents in other parts of the country, led to heightened persecution of Jews. It further entrenched the view of Jews as scapegoats for economic and social issues, especially as many Jewish people were moneylenders, which fuelled resentment.
Although some Jews eventually returned to York, the massacre marked the beginning of a long period of discrimination and violence for Jews in England. This atmosphere of hostility would contribute to the eventual expulsion of Jews from England in 1290 under King Edward I.
Today, Clifford’s Tower stands as a memorial to the victims, a reminder of the dark chapter in England’s medieval history.
Visiting Clifford’s Tower Today
Clifford’s Tower, managed by English Heritage, is one of York’s most iconic landmarks. It was built by William the Conqueror and has been used for many purposes over the years, including as a military defence, a coin mint, and a base for troops during the English Civil War. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of York’s medieval past, and the suffering endured by the Jewish community.
After a major restoration in 2022, the tower now features a new roof deck, providing 360° views of York’s skyline, including its medieval buildings and the famous Minster. Inside, visitors can explore areas that haven’t been accessible for centuries, including hidden rooms and features, thanks to new walkways and a free-standing timber structure designed to protect the tower.
Visitors will also get an audio guide which has a dedicated section on the 1190 massacre.
Please note: The current Clifford’s Tower is not the original structure where the York Massacre took place in 1190. The original tower was destroyed by a fire in 1684. What stands today was rebuilt after the fire, meaning the building you see now is a later reconstruction.
Facilities and Access
- Parking: A large car park is located nearby with a five-minute walk to the tower. Charges apply.
- Access: Due to the tower’s steep steps, it is not wheelchair accessible, but there are virtual tours available for those unable to climb.
- Facilities: There are no toilets on site, but facilities are a short walk away at Coppergate Shopping Centre.
- Audio tours: Available for blind and partially sighted visitors.
The photograph below shows the steep stairs that lead up onto the roof.
Location
Clifford’s Tower can be found at: Clifford’s Tower, Tower Street, York, YO1 9SA. The exact location is shown on the map below.
More Information
For more information about visiting Clifford’s Tower, visit the English Heritage website, or telephone 01904 646940.
