Fes Jewish Heritage Tour

Fes Jewish Heritage Tour – A Moroccan Private Guided Exploration of the Jewish Mellah’s History & Tale

Duration: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Morocco Travel Inclusions: Fes Old Medina & Jewish Heritage Sightseeing Tour, Luxury Morocco Transportation, Multilingual (English, French) Driver, Expert Licensed Fes Guide.

Starting & Finishing Point: Your Riad or Hotel in Fes

Uncover the Jewish Heritage of Fes, Morocco: Embark on a captivating journey through the Jewish heritage sites of Fes. Immerse yourself in ancient stories of the Jewish Mellah, discover historic synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and a fascinating museum.

FES JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR – GUIDED TOUR HIGHLIGHTS – HISTORY & STORIES OF THE MELLAH

• Visit the 17th Century Ibn Dannan Synagogue, the Talmud Torah Synagogue, Talmud Torah, and El Fassiyeen.
• Explore the Jewish Cemetery Museum and Fes Jewish Cemetery.
• Delve into the history of the Royal Palace and the captivating stories of the Jewish Mellah.
• Discover the home of Maimonides and the Maimonides Jewish Community Center.
• Enjoy a unique opportunity for dinner at a Rabbi’s home or a Kosher restaurant. Meet the local Fes Jewish Community on Friday evenings.

Fes, the fourth largest city in Morocco, is known for its rich Jewish history. It’s divided into Fès el Bali (the old walled city), Fès-Jdid (home of the Jewish Mellah), and the Ville Nouvelle (the French-created section). The Medina of Fes el Bali, housing the Jewish Mellah, synagogues, and historic Jewish sites, is believed to be the largest car-free urban area globally

ITINERARY: FES JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR – A Guided Historical Tour of Jewish Synagogues, the Jewish Mellah, and the Jewish Medina. Get up close with the local Jewish community in Fes.

• Start your day in Fès, the world’s oldest working medina often referred to as a living museum. Explore the 14th Century Palace Gates of the King, one of Morocco’s oldest and largest palaces.
• Explore Jewish Heritage Sites & Monuments in Fes: Begin with a visit to the Jewish Mellah, a historically walled Jewish quarter near royal residences. The Fes Mellah was established in 1438, serving as the first Mellah in Morocco.
• Continue to the revered Jewish Cemetery and Tomb of Solica, a site cherished by many. The cemetery houses more Jewish saints’ tombs than any other in Morocco.
• Visit the iconic Ibn Danan Jewish Synagogue and other historic synagogues. The Ibn Danan synagogue is listed on the 1996 World Monuments Watch List and Fund.
• Explore the former residence of Maimonides, who resided in Fes from 1159-1165, leaving traces of ancient Jewish life in the city. The Jewish community of Fes continues to work tirelessly to preserve its heritage and traditions in the face of declining population.
• Take an afternoon walk to the Dyers’ souk, known for its vibrant display of natural pigments used to color hides. Witness tanned leather colored in various shades.
• Visit several historic sites in the Medina: Explore the local fruit and vegetable market, the tanneries at the Tanner’s Quarters, the Weavers Cooperative specializing in exquisite jellaba fabric, the Mausoleum of Sidi Ahmed Tijani, the University of Kairouine, the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II, Nejarine Square, and the carpenters’ souk.
• Venture to Attarine Street, filled with the scents of Fes, offering carpets, scarves, and local handicrafts. Witness a Berber carpet demonstration at Antique and Modern Carpets.
• Lastly, visit the Bou Inania Medersa, an architectural gem in Fes with a rich history.