FONSECA, DANIEL DE

(1672-C.1740)

   Turkish physician and diplomat. He was born in Portugal and was brought up as a Christian. Although he became a priest, he adhered to Judaism in secret. He was pursued by the Inquisition and fled to France. In 1702 he arrived in Constantinople, where he embraced Judaism. He later became medical attendant to Prince Mavrocordato at Bucharest. After returning to Constantinople, he became physician to the sultan and eventually settled in Paris.