For centuries, Moroccan culture has seamlessly intertwined with Jewish heritage, presenting an enchanting opportunity for both Jewish and non-Jewish travelers to immerse themselves in a tapestry of historical significance. Amidst this captivating blend, one can uncover the captivating narratives of the Jewish Mellah, the flourishing Jewish community, exquisite synagogues, and architectural marvels influenced by Andalusian and Moorish styles. Moreover, Morocco houses sacred tombs, holy places, and the singular Jewish Museum within the Islamic world.

Leaving aside the iconic references to the film “Casablanca,” Morocco boasts a treasure trove of renowned Jewish heritage sites that consistently attract visitors from across the globe. When embarking on a journey to Morocco, these exceptional destinations stand as indispensable highlights, not to be missed. They encompass synagogues, cemeteries, and the Mellah, all meticulously preserved within the historical Jewish quarters nestled within the medinas of Moroccan cities.

It is noteworthy that each of Morocco’s Jewish heritage sites holds the esteemed distinction of either being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site or being safeguarded by the diligent oversight of the Moroccan monarchy and government. These sites undergo periodic restoration and preservation efforts, ensuring their enduring presence as cherished elements of Morocco’s illustrious Jewish legacy.

Casablanca, Morocco—New York Jewish Travel Guide

Jews of Moroccan descent, both in Israel and across the world, are frequently making return visits to Morocco, with some even maintaining second homes in the country. The availability of Jewish heritage tours is abundant, drawing enthusiasts to explore significant pilgrimage sites scattered throughout the nation, particularly during the Hillouloth. Among the most popular destinations are the revered Rabbi Yehouda Benatar in Fes, Rabbi Haim Pinto in Mogador, Rabbi Amram Ben Diwane in Ouezzan, and Rabbi Yahia Lakhdar in Beni-Ahmed.

Indeed, it’s worth highlighting that Casablanca, the thriving economic center of Morocco, not only accommodates the largest concentration of the country’s Jewish community but also boasts the distinction of being home to the sole Jewish Museum in the entire Arab world. This exceptional institution, with its origins rooted in a former Jewish orphanage, is renowned as the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. Despite its relatively compact size, the museum takes great care to provide a comprehensive and meticulous account of the 2,000-year history of Jews in Morocco, revealing a rich trove of invaluable artifacts and historical treasures.

The Museum of Moroccan Judaism, occupying 700 square meters, features: a versatile exhibition hall for art displays; three rooms showcase religious and family-life artifacts. Two complete Moroccan synagogue reconstructions and document, video, and photo libraries provide deeper insights into Moroccan Jewish heritage.

Large Menorah, Museum of Moroccan Judaism—New York Jewish Travel Guide

Zhor Rehihil, the museum’s director, holds a Ph.D. in Jewish studies and is a Muslim woman. She highlights several significant items within the collection, including Torah scrolls, hamzas, menorahs, intricately embroidered caftans, and a beautifully carved wooden bimah. She emphasizes the deep connection between Moroccan Muslims and Jews, expressing that the departure of Moroccan Jews left a void in the nation’s identity. She points out that Morocco once had a six-pointed star on its flag, like Israel, but this changed to five under French rule.

Rehihil underscores that the Moroccan constitution guarantees the rights of Jews to practice their religion and receive an education. In 2011, Morocco’s new constitution officially recognized the enriching influence of “Hebraic influences” on Moroccan identity. She notes that Morocco has made substantial efforts to preserve its Jewish heritage, which is gradually changing the perceptions of ordinary Moroccans. They now acknowledge that the Jewish narrative is an integral part of Moroccan heritage, and it is their responsibility to safeguard it for future generations.

Hanukiah, The Museum of Moroccan Judaism -New York Jewish Travel Guide

When visiting Casablanca, a must-see destination is Synagogue Beth El, the city’s largest among its 30 synagogues. Step inside to discover a stunning interior adorned with Marc Chagall-inspired stained glass, which bathes the space in a breathtaking spectrum of colors as sunlight filters through. An immense crystal chandelier further enhances the ambiance, casting a radiant, rainbow-like glow throughout the synagogue.

Within, you’ll also encounter ancient Hebrew scrolls on display and walls adorned with gilded quotes from the Torah, creating an atmosphere steeped in history and spiritual significance. It’s a captivating blend of art, culture, and spirituality that shouldn’t be missed during your visit to Casablanca.

Synagogue Beth El, New York Jewish Travel Guide

The Moroccan Jewish community upholds a robust educational network, attracting both Jewish and Muslim families to institutions like Ecole Maimonides. This French international secondary school is part of the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) network.

Notably, the Alliance Israelite School, established in Tetouan in 1862, stands as one of the oldest educational institutions in the region. It holds the distinction of being the largest Jewish high school in Morocco and all of Africa, both in terms of its physical size and the number of Jewish students it accommodates. In each class, there is an average of 21 students, representing both the Jewish and Muslim communities.

The school offers a French curriculum akin to the French Baccalaureate while also dedicating 15 hours per week to Judaica studies and the teaching of modern languages such as Hebrew and Arabic. This commitment to both general and cultural education reflects the harmonious coexistence and shared values of the diverse student body.

Mr. Shimon Cohen, Director of the Ecole Maimonides, Casablanca, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Mr. Shimon Cohen, who has been the school’s director for the past two decades, expressed his deep fondness for the institution and his profound nostalgia. This nostalgia is rooted in the many fulfilling years he has dedicated to fostering an environment where Muslim and Jewish communities coexist in perfect harmony, mutual trust, and friendship.

Mr. Cohen emphasized that this unique relationship extended beyond the school’s walls, transcending into the students’ lives after school hours. However, he acknowledged that things have evolved and changed over the years. When he first joined the school more than 20 years ago, it comprised roughly 90 percent Jewish students and 10 percent Muslim students. Today, these proportions have reversed, with approximately 90 percent of the student body being Muslim and only 10 percent Jewish, making up a total of 25 Jewish students out of the 350 in attendance.

Jewish Students at Ecole Maimonides, Casablanca, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Ecole Maimonides is highly regarded as a prestigious yet affordable private school. Mr. Cohen emphasized their commitment to preserving a close-knit environment where students and teachers are known on a personal level rather than by numbers. The school receives support from American delegations, like the Joint American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, which visits three times a year to assist with management and student support.

Additionally, the school features a modest synagogue where the community gathers for Shabbat and Jewish holidays. This sacred space was dedicated in memory of Charles Benouaich, Meyer Lalouz, and Hanina Benain, and it was officially inaugurated on June 24, 1985.

Ecole Maimonides, a small synagogue, is used by the community for Shabbat and Jewish holidays – New York Jewish Travel Guide

For a fascinating glimpse into the community’s history, a visit to the Jewish Cemetery of Ben Msik is highly recommended. This serene and open cemetery features well-maintained white stone markers bearing inscriptions in French, Hebrew, and Spanish. It offers a peaceful space where the past comes alive.

Once a year, Moroccan Jews gather to celebrate a Hilloula, marking the anniversary of the revered Rabbi Eliyahu Hacohen’s passing. He is also known as Qandil El Blad, or “the land’s lamp.” Notably, he was originally interred in the heart of Casablanca’s ancient medina, making this celebration a significant and cherished tradition.

Casablanca’s Jewish Cemetery, Ben Msik, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Mr. Serge Berdugo, the secretary-general of Moroccan Jewry, former Minister of Tourism from 1993 to 1995, and Ambassador of His Majesty King Mohammed VI since 2006, recently offered visiting journalists’ insights into the current state of the Moroccan Jewish community. He highlighted the community’s stability and, notably, the strong bonds that exist between the Moroccan Jewish community and the global Jewish diaspora.

Morocco remains a favored destination, welcoming approximately 40,000 visitors from Israel each year. These visitors come to partake in various occasions, including Hillouloth (pilgrimages), Passover, and a range of holidays, celebrations, and weddings. This enduring connection underscores the enduring ties between Moroccan Jews and their counterparts around the world.

Mr. Serge Berdugo, secretary-general of Moroccan Jewry in Casablanca, New York Jewish Travel Guide

Mr. Berdugo underscored a significant milestone in 2010 when Morocco’s King Mohammed VI initiated a project for the restoration of over 167 Jewish burial sites and 12,600 graves scattered across 40 provinces throughout Morocco. This effort also included the establishment of the Jewish Cultural Museum in Fes, with plans for another museum in Tangier in addition to the already-opened museum in Essaouira. Furthermore, the Synagogue Attias, known as the House of Memory, was renovated and transformed into a research center.

Mr. Berdugo also mentioned that while many Moroccan Jews left the country 50 or 60 years ago, they can still obtain a Moroccan passport in just two months with a valid birth certificate. However, one challenge the community faces relates to Kashrut. To address this, the community has established a student yeshiva, and by the end of the year, they will have 60 graduates hailing from Israel, the United States, Ethiopia, and other locations. Additionally, they are launching a school for the Shomrim (kashrut supervisors) and Shochatim (ritual slaughterers) to help fill the void in Kashrut services.

Journalists with Mr. Serge Berdugo, secretary-general of Moroccan Jewry in Casablanca—New York Jewish Travel Guide

Mr. Berdugo emphasized another significant milestone: the enthusiastic endorsement by King Mohammed VI of the implementation of Holocaust education in Moroccan schools. This commitment underscores Morocco’s unwavering dedication to educating its students about the Holocaust and its profound historical significance.

His commitment underscores Morocco’s unwavering dedication to educating its students about the Holocaust and its profound historical significance.

This initiative reflects Morocco’s commitment to include Holocaust studies as part of its educational curriculum, promoting awareness and understanding of this critical historical event. This move reflects the commitment to incorporate Holocaust studies into the country’s education system.

Mr. Berdugo also mentioned that Morocco sends students, both Muslims and Jews, to participate in the March of the Living at Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland every year. This annual educational gathering brings together youth from around the world to commemorate the Holocaust and learn from its history.

Morocco maintains connections with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., and regularly hosts symposiums and conferences in collaboration with Project Aladdin, a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting intercultural dialogue and countering Holocaust denial, racism, and intolerance, with a particular focus on fostering understanding among Muslims and Jews.

Mr. Berdugo also highlighted the Mimouna Organization as a notable example of interfaith cooperation. Established over seven years ago by a group of Moroccan Muslims, this organization is dedicated to preserving and reintroducing Jewish Moroccan culture. Its primary objective is to educate young Muslim college students about the rich history of unity between Jewish and Muslim Moroccans.

The organization got its name from a holiday observed by Moroccan Jews that takes place on the day following Passover.

On this occasion, many families would invite their Muslim neighbors for a feast, symbolizing the end of the holiday, the promise of redemption, and the hopeful return of the Messiah.

Today, the Mimouna Organization offers Hebrew classes on campuses, fosters interfaith dialogue among students, and organizes Moroccan-Jewish-themed events featuring authentic kosher cuisine, music, and a mini-museum of artifacts.

For more information, visit:

To plan a trip to Morocco, contact the Moroccan National Tourist Office or log on to http://www.visitmorocco.com/en.

Fly Royal Air Morocco: https://www.royalairmaroc.com/us-en/

Ride with Train Al Boraq, a high-speed rail service between Casablanca and Tangier.

Story & photography by Meyer Harroch – New York Jewish Travel Guide & New York  Jewish Guide.

The author took part in a press trip sponsored by the Moroccan National Tourist Office.