For over two thousand years, Jewish communities have been woven into the fabric of Moroccan society, from mountain Berber tribes that embraced Judaism in antiquity to the Megorashim who found sanctuary in Morocco following expulsion from Spain in 1492. Founded in 1558 by the Saadian Sultan Moulay Abdallah, the Mellah of Marrakech grew to become Morocco's second-largest Jewish quarter. On this moving and illuminating historical walk, your licensed historian guide leads you through the Mellah's distinctive architecture, characterized by exterior balconies and wide street windows distinct from traditional inward-facing Islamic riads. Visit the 16th-century Salat Alzama Synagogue, built around a tranquil blue-and-white courtyard housing historical archives, photographs, and preserved Torah scrolls. Explore the historic Mellah jewelry and spice markets, and conclude with a reverent visit to the vast, peaceful whitewashed tombs of the Miâara Jewish Cemetery, the largest Jewish burial ground in Morocco dating back over five centuries.
Detailed Itinerary
- 09:30 AM
Meet your licensed guide at Bab Agnaou or your hotel door.
- 09:45 AM
Walk through the historic Saadian district and entrance gate to the Mellah.
- 10:15 AM
Comprehensive visit to Salat Alzama Synagogue (Synagogue of the Expelled) and community museum.
- 11:15 AM
Guided exploration of the traditional Mellah spice market and gold/silver artisan jewelers.
- 12:00 PM
Reverent walk through the Miâara Jewish Cemetery, visiting rabbis' mausoleums and historic graves.
- 12:45 PM
Closing tea and discussion on centuries of interfaith harmony and Moroccan royal protection of minorities.
Inclusions
- State-certified historian guide, all synagogue donations and entrance fees, cemetery access, mineral water
Exclusions
- Personal shopping, tips