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A Guide to Jewish Heritage in Morocco

A Complete Guide to Jewish Morocco: Discover Morocco's Jewish Legacy. A Safe Haven for American Jewish Travelers.

Discover the rich tapestry of Jewish history and culture in Morocco with our comprehensive "Complete Guide to Jewish Heritage in Morocco."  This in-depth resource unveils centuries of Jewish life across the kingdom, from ancient mellahs to modern synagogues. Morocco has one of the largest Jewish communities in the Muslim world.
As a country where Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities have flourished in unity for centuries, Morocco presents itself as a leading example of Golden Age Coexistence within the Muslim world today.
Explore Morocco's rich Jewish Heritage with expert-led tours. Discover ancient synagogues and vibrant traditions. Learn about Morocco's status as a safe haven for Jewish travelers, with insights into protected heritage sites, thriving communities, and sacred zaouias. Learn about Morocco's unique position in the Muslim world, housing the only Jewish museum in an Arab country. From Casablanca's bustling Jewish quarter to hidden gems in the Atlas Mountains, our guide covers it all. Discover Moroccan Kosher restaurants and dining options, connect with local rabbis, and understand the royal commitment to preserving Jewish heritage. Whether you're planning a pilgrimage, researching Moroccan Jewish history, or seeking a unique cultural experience, this Complete Jewish Guide is your ultimate resource for uncovering Jewish Morocco's past and present.

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In a message at the restoration ceremony of the 17th century Slat al Fassayine Synagogue in Fez, Morocco's King reiterated his commitment to religious freedom and spiritual diversity, and emphasized the importance of the three-thousand-year-old Jewish legacy in Morocco. "I am committed to defending the faith and the community of believers and to fulfilling my mission with respect to upholding freedom of religion for all believers in the revealed religions, including Judaism, whose followers are loyal citizens for whom I deeply care.”– King Mohammed VI 
Why is Morocco a Safe Haven for American Jewish Travelers? Exploring Morocco's Rich Jewish Heritage and History
  • Morocco’s history of Jewry and the co-mingling of Jews with Berbers and Arabs are a key factor in why Morocco is safe for Jewish Travelers today. Morocco is a country of Muslims, Jews and Christians. Jews first arrived in Morocco during pre-Christian times, accompanying the Phoenicians on their trade expeditions across the coast of Morocco. In the countryside Jewish and Berber tribes tilled the soil side by side together for two thousand years speaking the Berber dialect. In the towns and cities Jewish merchants and financiers were valued by successive Moroccan rulers who protected them.
  • Jews also joined the various waves of Muslims who escaped persecution during the Christian conquests of Southern Spain in 1492. Since the Arab- Islamic colonization of Morocco from the 7th Century, these two faiths have coexisted peacefully in Morocco. Jews were favored by Moroccan Arabs and Berbers (Amazigh) for their business acumen. They were silver smiths, jewelers and craftsmen. The silversmiths of today in Morocco are the product of Moroccan Jews who until the 20th Century lived in Morocco.
  • Prior to World War II, the Jewish population in Morocco was approximately 225,000. During World War II King Mohammed V protected Moroccan Jews from being shipped off to Europe and sent to concentration camps. When Hitler demanded that King Mohammed V hand over the Jews of Morocco, the King stated simply, “in Morocco we don’t have Jews, we only have Moroccan citizens.” This act was not just one of political gesture or kindness however, it was an act of protection for what has been historically an important part of what makes up – the people of Morocco - Jews.
  • After the war, a steady stream of immigration of Moroccan Jews to Israel turned into a flood after Morocco’s independence in 1956. Today's population of Moroccan Jews is considered to number around 10,000 at the most. This mass immigration by Jews from Morocco was part initiated by the Israeli government with the goal to increase population and also by Jews who wanted to seek a better – more prosperous Jewish life.
  • Since Moroccan independence in 1956, the ruling Alaouite dynasty has continued a tradition of tolerance and support toward the country's Jewish minority. Hassan II was particularly active in the 1980s in trying to bring peace to the Israeli/Palestine conflict. Prime Minister Shimon Peres was the first Israeli government minister to be invited to an Arab country, Morocco.
Morocco's Commitment to Jewish Heritage: Government Policies and Royal Support
  • King Mohammed VI has inherited his father's tolerance, and kept Jewish Moroccan citizen André Azoulay as one of his royal advisors. André Azoulay is the only royal advisor still in post who has served both King Hassan II and his son King Mohammed VI. In a message at the restoration ceremony of the 17th century Slat al Fassayine Synagogue in Fes in February 2013, which the King supported financially, King Mohammed VI reiterated his commitment to religious freedom and spiritual diversity, and emphasized the importance of the three-thousand- year-old Jewish legacy in Morocco.
  • The ceremony in Fes, at the Slat al Fassayine Synagogue, was opened by Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane of the Islamic PJD party that leads the government coalition.He commended Morocco’s Jewish heritage. The Jewish religion and its heritage was given a special status recognizing it as part of Morocco’s cultural heritage in the 2011 constitution introduced by King Mohammed VI.In times past, Jews traditionally lived in a part of the medina called the Mellah. Most have now moved out into the ville nouvelle, (new city) although some old synagogues still remain. The majority of Jews in Morocco live in Casablanca, where a visit to the only Jewish museum in the Arabic world is well worth the time. Morocco's Jews are an aging population.
Why are Morocco’s Jewish Heritage sites safe for Jewish Travelers?

Exploring Morocco's Protected Jewish Heritage Sites:
A Safe Journey for All VisitorsMorocco’s Jewish Heritage sites consist of Synagogues, Cemeteries, Zaouias, Mellahs (preserved Jewish neighborhoods in the old medinas) and other sacred sites. Morocco’s Jewish sites are either UNESCO Heritage sites and/ or protected by the King and the Moroccan government. The Jewish sites in Morocco are under renovation and preservation with the goal to ensure the sites remain in fully tact as an integral part of Morocco’s living cultural heritage.
Jewish Travelers in Morocco: From Imperial Cities to Sahara Sands
Morocco embraces diversity in its tourism, treating all visitors equally regardless of faith, race, or background. Jewish travelers exploring the Imperial Cities, mountain regions, and Sahara Desert can expect the same warm welcome and respect as any other tourist.
Key points for Jewish travelers in Morocco:
  • No religious discrimination: Visitors are never questioned about their religion.
  • Standard entry procedures: Customs requirements are similar to those in the USA and other countries.
  • Israeli passport stamps: Not an issue for entry into Morocco.
  • Equal treatment: Jewish travelers receive the same respect in all regions, including Imperial Cities, mountains, and the Sahara.
  • Privacy respected: No segregation or special treatment based on faith or background.
Exploring Jewish Heritage in Morocco: FAQ for Travelers
Can I visit Morocco with Israeli passport stamps? 
Yes, absolutely. Morocco and Israel maintain friendly relations. Israeli citizens frequently travel to Morocco, often visiting Zaouias (sacred sites) on pilgrimages or to see ancestral properties in old cities. Notable Jewish Zaouias can be found in the Tarodaunt region, Ourigane, Telouet, and near Fes, reflecting Morocco's rich history of sacred Jewish sites.
What is the Current Jewish Population in Modern Morocco? Currently, approximately 3,000 Jews reside in Morocco, with the majority living in Casablanca. This represents about 10% of the Jewish population before Israel's establishment.
Does Morocco have a Jewish Museum? Discover the Museum of Moroccan Judaism Morocco boasts a unique institution in the Muslim world: The Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca. This museum showcases:
  • Photographs of synagogues across Morocco
  • Chanukah lamps and Torah scrolls
  • Jewish chamsas (hand-shaped amulets)
  • Gold-embroidered Moroccan caftans
  • Jewels, ancient rugs, and other Jewish-Moroccan cultural artifacts Founded by Casablanca's Jewish community and renovated after 2011, it stands as a testament to Morocco's Jewish heritage.
Where to find Morocco's Main Jewish Sites:
While Jewish sites are scattered throughout Morocco and protected by the Kingdom, the primary locations are:
  • Marrakech and Fes: Home to preserved Jewish Mellahs (quarters) in their old medinas
  • Various new cities and villages: Many well-preserved sites
  • Throughout Morocco: Numerous protected Jewish heritage sites
Morocco's Sacred Zaouias and Great Tombs
Morocco is home to numerous sacred sites, including Zaouias (shrines) and tombs, revered by both Muslims and Jews. These sites are scattered across the country, with many located in the Atlas Mountains and surrounding regions. Here's an overview of some notable locations:
Telouet - Tichka Pass Mountain Region
Jewish Zaouia of Telouet
  • Located near Marrakech. Once the seat of Pacha Thami El Glaoui during the French protectorate. Visited annually by Jewish pilgrims.
Moulay Ighi Shrine
  • About 20 minutes from Marrakech on the road to Ouarzazate. Visited by both Muslims and Jews. Features: Shrine complex of a rabbi known as the "Jewish shrine of Moulay Ighi", Perched on a hilltop in the Atlas Mountains, Modern amenities include guesthouses and a synagogueHistorically attracted thousands for annual hiloula (pilgrimage) on Lag b'Omer
Ourigane
Jewish-Berber Shrine of Rabbi Mordekhai & Rabbi Abraham Ben Hammou
  • Located just outside the National Park. Accessible via an old dirt road. Compound enclosed by a gate, surrounded by mountains
Timerzrite - Atlas Mountains
  • Remote village receiving thousands of Jewish pilgrims during Sukkot. Honors the memory of Rabbi David U Moshe
Achbaru
Tomb of Rabbi Ralph HaCohen
  • Located south of Marrakech. Features: Muslim caretaker, Complex includes a synagogue, dining hall, guest rooms, well, and communal graveyard
Erfoud
Tombs of Rabbi Shlomo Ben Lhans and Rabbi Shmuel
  • Tomb of Shmuel AbuHatzeira. Also contains the tomb of Rabbi Shlomo Ben Lhans, who died while visiting from Israel
These sacred sites continue to attract pilgrims and visitors, serving as important cultural and spiritual landmarks in Morocco.
Synagogues and Jewish Communities in Morocco
Morocco is home to numerous synagogues and Jewish communities, with the largest concentration in Casablanca. This Complete Jewish Heritgae Guide unveils Morocco's diverse Jewish landmarks, showcasing historic synagogues, vibrant communities, and sacred sites from bustling Casablanca to hidden gems in the Atlas Mountains.

Casablanca
  • Largest Jewish community with over 4,000 inhabitants, 17 synagogues (not all operational) 
  • Synagogue Nehim Zemiroth (29, Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau)
  • Temple Beth El (Main Synagogue, Rue Verlet Hanus)
  • Em Habanim (14 rue Lusitania)
  • Benarroch (24 rue Lusitania)
  • Hazan (rue Roger Farache)
Fes
  • Em Habanim Synagogue (17th Century, in the ancient Mellah established in 1438)
  • Slat al Fassayine (oldest synagogue in Fes, recently restored)
  • Ruben Sadoun Synagogue (rue Frejus)
  • Jewish Community Center (24 rue Zerktouni)
  • Community President: Rafael Danan
  • Notable: White-washed Jewish cemetery, one of the most beautiful in the world
Marrakech
  • Rabbi Pinhas Synagogue (oldest in Marrakech, Rue Talmud Torah, in historic Mellah established in 1538)
  • Beth El Synagogue (modern Guéliz area, opposite the American centre)
  • Other synagogues: Bitton (rue de Touareg), Attias (rue Saka), Azoulay (rue A. Azoulay)
  • Community President: Jacky Kadoch
  • Notable: Miaara Jewish cemetery with brilliant white tombs
Essaouira
  • Rabbi Chaim Pinto Synagogue (in the medina, active for pilgrims and tour groups)
  • Slat Lkahal Synagogue (under historic renovation)
  • Two Jewish cemeteries
  • Community President: Jacky Kadoch
El Jadida
  • Community Centre: Av. Richard d'lvry
  • President: Abraham Ruimy
Agadir
  • Jewish community at Angle Avenue du Prince Moulay Abdallah
Safi
  • Synagogues: Mursiand and Beth El (both on rue du R'bat)
  • Community Centre: 1 rue Boussouni
  • President: Meyer Ohayon
Sefrou
  • Synagogues: Em Habanim (Route B'El), Sla D'El Fouki (in the Mellah)
  • President: Rahamim Tobaly
Kenitra
  • Synagogue: rue Delyon
  • Rabbi: Yahia Benarroche
  • Community Centre: 13 rue Benani
  • President: David Amar
Meknes
  • Community centre: 15, rue du Ghana
Oujda
  • Community Centre and Synagogue: rue Sidi-Brahim
  • Community President: Henri Cohen
Rabat
  • Grand Synagogue Talmud Tora (9 rue Moulay Ismail)
  • Rabbi: Mikail Encaoua (Vice-president of the Rabbinical Court of Appeal, generally regarded as Chief Rabbi of Morocco)
  • Other synagogues: Talmud Torah and Rebbe Shalom Zaoui
  • Community Centre: 3 rue Ibn Toumert
  • President: Albert Derhy
Tangiers
  • Temple Nahon (rue des Synagogues)
  • Yeshiva Etz Haim (43 Av. Sidi Amar)
  • Shaar Raphael (Blvd. Pasteur)
  • Temple Chocron (rue du Mexique, in the old part of town)
  • Other synagogues can be found in the Rue des Synagogues
Tarodaunt
  • Adobe synagogue in Arazan village (one of the only Adobe synagogues in the world)
  • Features Hebrew prayers painted on earthen walls and an ark adorned with Amazigh decorations
Tetouan
  • Community Centre: Calle Luneta 37
  • Community President: Jacob Serfaty
  • Additional community location: 16, avenue Moulay El Abbas
Souk el Araba du Gharb
  • President: Sam Benoudiz
Discover Morocco's Jewish Heritage: Rabbis and Kosher Dining Guide
Explore the vibrant Jewish presence in Morocco with our comprehensive guide to Rabbinical Services and Kosher Dining options across the kingdom's most iconic cities.
Rabbinical Presence in Morocco's Imperial Cities
Morocco's rich Jewish heritage is maintained by rabbis residing in key locations. These spiritual leaders play a crucial role in preserving Jewish traditions and serving the local communities.
  • Tangier
  • Casablanca
  • Fes
  • Marrakech
  • Essaouira
Kosher Dining Experiences in Morocco
Savor authentic Moroccan flavors while adhering to kosher dietary laws. Here's a city-by-city guide to kosher and kosher-friendly restaurants:

Casablanca
  • Cercle de L'Union: Catering located in the heart of the Golden Triangle (Kosher meat restaurant)
  • Cercle de L'Alliance: Traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean Fare (Kosher meat restaurant)
  • Bagel Bar: Bagels and pizza (Kosher dairy restaurnat)
  • Madame Fahl Bakery: Fresh breads, cakes and pastries
  • Chabad Casablanca Shabat Meals
  • Chez Midhel: Inside the CCJC (Kosher Meal Restaurant)
  • Le Chanedlier: Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner: Shabbat meals with advance reservation.Under the supervision of orthodox union (OU USA) Glatt Kosher Lemehadrin meat meals and Halav Israel dairy meals  (Kosher Meal Restaurant)
  • Restaurant du SOC Chez David: (Kosher Meat Restaurant) 
  • Wasabi Asian Restaurant: Sushi, Kosher meat and vegetarian dishes
Fes
  • Dragon Kosher Restaurant: Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner. Shabbat meals with advance reservation. Under the supervision of orthodox union (OU USA). Glatt Kosher Lemehadrin (Kosher meal restaurant and Halav Israel dairy meals)
  • Center Maimonides (24 Rue Zerktouni, adjacent to Hotel Splendide)
    • Offers meat, vegetarian, and parve options (Kosher meal restaurant)
Tangier
  • Cercle Tangier: Kosher meal restaurant, Rabbin Jacob Torjmane 
Marrakech
  • Wasabi Asian Restaurant: Sushi, Kosher meat and vegetarian dishes
  • Dar Ima: Moroccan Traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean Fare (Kosher meat restaurant)
  • Sihma: Kosher Pastry shop owned by Dar Ima
  • Le Sepharade - Meatsaal (31 lotissement Hassania)
  • Axo: Traditional Moroccan located inside Asi Asni Hotel (Kosher meat restaurant)
  • Hotel Riad Primavera (The only kosher hotel in all of Morocco)
  • Beit Chabad Lametayel (Synagogue Bet El, Impasse Des Moulins – Gueliz)
  • Le Viennoise at the Pullman Hotel
  • Mansour Eddahbi hotel (under renovation)
Whether you're seeking spiritual guidance or a kosher meal, Morocco offers a range of options for Jewish travelers and residents alike. From historic synagogues to modern kosher establishments, experience the unique blend of Moroccan and Jewish cultures in these imperial cities.
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