A Jewish visitor's view of Morocco

At a time when the Islamic world is often the focus of world's attention on a daily basis over issues such as Iraq, Iran or the continuing heartbreak over the situation of the Palestinians, it is understandable that Jewish tourists feel a little ambivalent about visiting an Islamic country. Yet it is such visits that build bridges and start the long journey towards peace and mutual understanding.

Recently Rita Charleston, who writes for the Jewish Exponent, visited Morocco. Here is some of what she wrote about her experience:

Morocco is a little-known kingdom, bridging the gap between Europe and Africa; it's a country where Jews and Muslims have flourished side by side for centuries. This is a nation where you can take in a presentation of a Jewish museum in a Muslim land, and where you can visit the sanctuary where the holy man Oulad Ben Zmirrou -- venerated by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike -- is buried.


Then, on to Fez, the first capital of the kingdom. The best way to explore this city is on foot, following the flow of the narrow streets and alleyways to enjoy the ceaseless sounds of voices everywhere.

In contrast with the young mellah (Jewish quarter) of Casablanca, we were soon off to visit that of Fez, which is more than 650 years old. And although more than 98 percent of Moroccans are Muslim, there is also a viable Jewish community. Perhaps nowhere is that more evident than in Fez, where you can walk through the Jewish quarter and visit its synagogue situated next to the Royal Palace.

Jews took shelter in this palace during the 1912 pogrom. The nearby cemetery contains the tomb of more Jewish saints than any other cemetery in Morocco.

Today, with only 250 Jewish families still living in Fez (population 300,000), their presence is felt, though when I entered the synagogue and kissed the mezuzah, the caretaker smiled and nodded at me in a knowing and caring way.

The full article can be found here: Make it Morocco


Tags: Moroccan Morocco Fes, Maghreb news