Jewish Cemetery Ben M'Sik
A solemn memorial to German soldiers from WWI & WWII, set within a serene, beautifully landscaped cemetery in Casablanca.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Jewish Cemetery Ben M'Sik
Best Time
Quiet reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial to German soldiers from WWI & WWII, set within a serene, beautifully landscaped cemetery in Casablanca.
"A place of quiet remembrance and historical significance, beautifully maintained."
🕊️ Place a Stone
A traditional way to show respect and remembrance for those interred here.
🌿 Appreciate the Flora
Take a moment to admire the diverse and beautiful Mediterranean plants that surround the graves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
German War Graves
Ben M'Sik Cemetery
Solemn resting place for 344 German soldiers from WWI and WWII, marked by natural stone crosses.
Memorial Stone
Cemetery Entrance
A multilingual inscription honors the 344 German soldiers buried here, a powerful historical marker.
Lush Mediterranean Planting
Throughout the cemetery
Enjoy the serene beauty of Canary Island date palms, fig trees, and vibrant maquis vegetation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I would like to visits a Jewish cemetery, what are some does and don’ts?
🕊️ Place a Stone
A traditional way to show respect and remembrance for those interred here.
🌿 Appreciate the Flora
Take a moment to admire the diverse and beautiful Mediterranean plants that surround the graves.
Proper etiquette at a Jewish cemetery
Cemetery etiquette
🚶♂️ Walk the Paths
The well-maintained paths offer a peaceful way to explore the cemetery grounds.
📜 Read the Memorial
The inscription at the entrance provides a concise historical overview of the site.
Visiting my Jewish loved one’s grave for the first time
Tips
from all over the internet
🕊️ Place a Stone
A traditional way to show respect and remembrance for those interred here.
🌿 Appreciate the Flora
Take a moment to admire the diverse and beautiful Mediterranean plants that surround the graves.
🚶♂️ Walk the Paths
The well-maintained paths offer a peaceful way to explore the cemetery grounds.
📜 Read the Memorial
The inscription at the entrance provides a concise historical overview of the site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Jewish Cemetery Ben M'Sik, especially the German war graves section, to be a place of profound historical significance and quiet beauty. The well-maintained grounds and the poignant memorial stone are frequently highlighted. While it's a solemn site, the surrounding flora adds a touch of serenity.
"Information from the website of the German War Graves Commission: "In Morocco, 120 German soldiers fell during the First World War and 224 during the Second World War. Their graves were located in a total of 20 locations, including Casablanca/Ben M'Sik, Rabat, Meknes, and Marrakesh. Since the permanent right of rest for these 344 war dead appeared unattainable over the years due to the scattered graves, the German War Graves Commission decided to establish a central facility that would create the conditions for the care and preservation of the German graves in Morocco. A closed burial ground at the European Cemetery in Casablanca/Ben M'Sik, where burials had already taken place in previous years and whose size allowed for additional burials, was ideal for this purpose. The German War Graves Commission's first contacts with the Moroccan authorities date back to 1967, but were initially unsuccessful. After years of continuous efforts, the issue of reinterring the German war dead was finally resolved. German war dead were finally resolved. An exchange of notes in July 1978 between the governments of both countries finally formed the legal basis for the work. The reburial of a total of 155 fallen soldiers, mostly buried on site, began in the autumn of 1978. After the reburials were completed in December 1978, the redesign of the cemetery, which covers an area of approximately 1,400 square meters, began in early 1979. The grave field was re-edged with edging stones and planted with Bermuda grass lawns. The existing paths and the access were repaired and reinforced, and the surrounding planting was revised. In addition to the Canary Island date palms and fig trees found on the site, flowering wild plants of the maquis, a characteristic vegetation form of the Mediterranean region, give the cemetery its special character. Ivy, lavender, and Mesembryanthemum were planted as ground cover, as were the climbing plants Bougainvillea and a variety of Shrubs such as pistachio bush, oleander, laurel, carob tree, rockrose, and dwarf palm were used. The graves of the 344 fallen soldiers were subsequently marked with permanent natural stone crosses, each bearing one or two names. A memorial stone at the entrance to the burial ground bears the following inscription in German, French, and Arabic: "In this burial ground rest 344 German soldiers 1914 – 1918 1939 – 1945." After its final completion in the spring of 1979, the site was inaugurated on May 30, 1979. In addition to the 344 German soldiers, French and British fallen soldiers, as well as European civilians, are buried in other burial grounds at the Ben M'Sik Cemetery in Casablanca."
Source text & images: https://kriegsgraeberstaetten.volksbund.de/friedhof/ben-msik"
bbq04
""
N 7
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jewish Cemetery Ben M'Sik is located within the larger Ben M'Sik Cemetery complex in Casablanca. Taxis are the most convenient way to reach it from the city center. It's advisable to have your destination written in Arabic or French for the driver.
While direct public transport to the cemetery's exact entrance might be limited, you can take buses or trams to the general Ben M'Sik area and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the specific burial ground.
Once inside the Ben M'Sik Cemetery, follow signs or ask for directions to the designated German war graves section, which is a distinct area within the larger cemetery.
Parking availability directly at the cemetery can be limited. If arriving by private car, look for street parking in the vicinity or inquire about designated areas.
The main paths within the German war graves section are generally well-maintained. However, some areas might have uneven terrain, so it's good to be prepared.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Jewish Cemetery Ben M'Sik, including the German war graves section, is generally free. It is a place of remembrance and open for respectful visits.
While specific hours for the entire Ben M'Sik Cemetery complex might vary, the German war graves section is typically accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day for safety and visibility.
Guided tours specifically for the German war graves section are not commonly advertised. However, local guides in Casablanca might offer historical tours that include this site.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. It's advisable to avoid visiting during prayer times or late at night.
Yes, the cemetery is generally open on weekends and holidays. However, it might be busier during these times.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemnity of the location. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals.
There are no widely advertised restrictions on photography within the German war graves section. However, always be discreet and respectful.
The memorial stone at the entrance and the rows of natural stone crosses offer poignant photographic opportunities. The surrounding flora also provides beautiful backdrops.
It's best to avoid using flash photography out of respect for the site and any visitors who may be present. Natural light is usually sufficient.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in cemeteries and may require special permits. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise.
🎫 🕊️ Etiquette & Respect
It's important to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Placing a stone on a grave is a traditional sign of remembrance.
While there's no strict dress code, modest attire is recommended. Some visitors choose to wear a hat as a sign of respect.
While flowers are a common gesture, the tradition of placing stones is more specific to Jewish cemeteries. If you bring flowers, ensure they are placed respectfully.
Some traditions suggest washing hands after visiting a cemetery as a symbolic act of purification.
The primary custom to observe is to be quiet, respectful, and mindful of the solemnity of the place.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Understanding the efforts of the German War Graves Commission to consolidate and care for these fallen soldiers adds another layer to the visit. It's a site that prompts reflection on the broader impact of global conflicts and the importance of remembrance across borders.
Those Seeking Quiet Contemplation
It's a place where you can walk the quiet paths, admire the natural beauty, and spend time in thoughtful contemplation, honoring the memory of those who are laid to rest here. The absence of large crowds further enhances the sense of tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Place of Remembrance: The German War Graves
Each grave is marked with a permanent natural stone cross, bearing the name(s) of the soldier(s) interred. A central memorial stone at the entrance bears an inscription in German, French, and Arabic, commemorating the 344 soldiers and the years of conflict. This section is a solemn reminder of the human cost of war and a testament to international efforts in remembrance.
Beyond the German graves, the Ben M'Sik Cemetery also holds the resting places of French and British fallen soldiers, as well as European civilians, underscoring its role as a multicultural site of remembrance. The cemetery's design incorporates local flora, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere for visitors.
The Landscape and Atmosphere
Ground cover includes ivy, lavender, and Mesembryanthemum, adding splashes of color and fragrance. Climbing plants like Bougainvillea and various shrubs such as oleander, laurel, and dwarf palm contribute to the lushness. This thoughtful landscaping transforms the cemetery into a tranquil garden, offering a serene environment for reflection and remembrance.
The overall atmosphere is one of quiet dignity. The well-maintained paths and the natural stone crosses create a sense of order and respect. It's a place where history and nature converge, offering visitors a unique and moving experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit