Ibn Danan Synagogue
A 17th-century Orthodox Jewish synagogue in Fes's historic Mellah, offering a glimpse into Morocco's rich Jewish heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Ibn Danan Synagogue
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Orthodox Jewish synagogue in Fes's historic Mellah, offering a glimpse into Morocco's rich Jewish heritage.
"A wonderful example of an old synagogue in the Mellah of Fes, definitely worth the visit!"
💰 Entry Fee
Expect to pay around 25 MAD for entry, which supports upkeep and restoration efforts.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mellah
The synagogue is in the historic Mellah; explore this area for a richer understanding of Jewish heritage.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
17th Century Architecture
Main Sanctuary
Step back in time within this beautifully preserved 17th-century Orthodox Jewish synagogue.
Intricate Tilework
Walls and Floors
Admire the detailed tilework and wooden beams that reflect the spirit of coexistence and tradition.
The Rabbi's Pulpit
Central Area
See the unique layout designed for the rabbi to preach, a focal point of the synagogue's design.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Mellah
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Entry Fee
Expect to pay around 25 MAD for entry, which supports upkeep and restoration efforts.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mellah
The synagogue is in the historic Mellah; explore this area for a richer understanding of Jewish heritage.
🗣️ Guided Tours Recommended
A guide can unlock the stories and significance of this hidden gem.
📸 Photography
Capture the beautiful tilework and architectural details. Natural light is best.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Entry Fee
Expect to pay around 25 MAD for entry, which supports upkeep and restoration efforts.
🚶♀️ Explore the Mellah
The synagogue is in the historic Mellah; explore this area for a richer understanding of Jewish heritage.
🗣️ Guided Tours Recommended
A guide can unlock the stories and significance of this hidden gem.
📸 Photography
Capture the beautiful tilework and architectural details. Natural light is best.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ibn Danan Synagogue a well-maintained and historically significant site, offering a glimpse into Fes's Jewish heritage. While the entry fee is reasonable and supports preservation, some wish for more detailed information about the artifacts on display. It's considered a hidden gem worth exploring for its unique architecture and historical context.
"After taking a walk through the Mellah district, we decided to visit the synagogue. And it was definitely worth the visit!"
Meryam
"Old synagogue 🕍 here in Mellah.
Well maintained and clean, but would be helpful with more signs and explanations for the various artefacts on display, given that the Jewish people were one of the earliest settlers here in Fes.
25 MAD per pax for entry."
YJ
"This is a wonderful example of an old synagogue in the Mellah of Fes. I have long been fascinated by this religion and take every opportunity to visit Jewish areas when in holiday and Fes was no exception. You pay 25MAD to visit this but this is to assist with its upkeep and keep it going. For those able to descend the statues you can even see the Mikvah. Worth looking at and hearing about the history of the Jewish community in Fes"
Clair Hughes
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ibn Danan Synagogue is located in the historic Mellah district of Fes. It's best reached by walking through the medina. Taxis can get you close to the Mellah, but you'll need to navigate the narrow streets on foot. Consider hiring a local guide who can lead you directly to the synagogue and provide historical context.
The Mellah is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during the day. However, like any busy medina, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Exploring with a guide can enhance your safety and experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically around 25 MAD per person. This fee contributes to the maintenance and restoration of the synagogue, helping to preserve this historical site.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or with your guide. Sometimes, the synagogue might appear closed, but a woman is often available to let visitors in for the fee.
In some cases, the ticket for the Ibn Danan Synagogue might also grant access to other historical sites within the Mellah, though it's best to confirm this upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a beautifully preserved 17th-century Orthodox Jewish synagogue with intricate tilework, wooden beams, and a unique layout designed for the rabbi's sermons. You might also see the Mikvah (ritual bath) if you're able to access it.
While the synagogue is well-maintained, some visitors have noted that more signage and explanations about the artifacts would be helpful to fully appreciate the history of the Jewish community in Fes.
The synagogue is located in an old medina with narrow streets and stairs. Access inside might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. It's recommended to inquire about accessibility beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Ibn Danan Synagogue, allowing you to capture its beautiful architecture and tilework. The natural light during the day is ideal for photos.
Focus on the intricate tilework, the wooden beams, and the central area where the rabbi would preach. The overall ambiance of the preserved historical space is also very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for kids, consider hiring a guide who can tell stories in an age-appropriate manner. Focus on the visual aspects like the colorful tiles and the unique layout of the synagogue. The entry fee is modest, making it an affordable addition to a family's itinerary. Ensure children are supervised, especially in the narrow medina streets.
🏛️ History Buffs
Combine your visit with an exploration of the surrounding Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter. Understanding the socio-political context of the Jewish community in Fes, including their relationship with the sultan and their unique architectural adaptations, will deepen your appreciation for the synagogue's significance. Hiring a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended to unlock the full historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jewish Heritage of Fes
This historical context is crucial for understanding the importance of sites like the Ibn Danan Synagogue. Built in the 17th century, it represents a period of continued Jewish presence and religious practice in the city. While the Jewish population in Fes has dwindled over time, these historical sites serve as vital links to the past, preserving the memory and contributions of the Jewish community to Moroccan culture and history.
Visiting the synagogue offers a tangible connection to this past. It's a place where you can reflect on the history of religious tolerance and the enduring legacy of Jewish life in Fes. The synagogue's preservation is a community effort, with entry fees contributing to its upkeep and ensuring that future generations can learn from its existence.
Exploring the Mellah
Wandering through the Mellah allows you to experience the atmosphere of this historic neighborhood. You'll find narrow, winding streets, local shops, and a palpable sense of history. It's a less crowded area compared to other parts of the Fes medina, offering a more intimate exploration. Many visitors recommend exploring the Mellah before or after visiting the synagogue to fully appreciate its context.
Beyond the Ibn Danan Synagogue, the Mellah holds other historical markers of Jewish life. While some structures may be in disrepair, the overall character of the district speaks volumes about the community that once thrived here. It's a place for quiet contemplation and discovery, offering a different perspective on Fes's multifaceted history.
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