"As the King of Spain has driven the Jews out of all his
Dominions; those that live in full Liberty here [Alessandria in Piedmont,
northern Italy], are certainly one of the most notable Things of this Place.
Interest is the great Mover of the World, and as Alexandria is a Place that was
never well inhabited, a new and abortive Town; they have granted to the Jews
Liberty in it, to people it is a little more, and to drive there some small
Trade at least. The street where they dwell, is that which makes the best
Figure. The Men never let their Beards grow. According to the strictness of the
Terms agreed with ‘em, they are forced to distinguish themselves by grey Hats,
but the Magistrates are not severe in that Point. The married Women wear very
Grotesque Head-dresses, and the Maids or Virgins, wear nothing but their own
Hair; that’s their Distinction."
Maximilien
Misson . A new voyage to Italy. 1714. Vol II, Page 380
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