Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue - Image 1
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Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue Fez

4
·24 reviews·Fes, Morocco

An ancient synagogue in Fez's Mellah, famed for its unique carved wooden staircase and historical significance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During scheduled events

Catch unique sacred music shows

CrowdMedium
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Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue - Image 1

Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue Fez

Best Time

During scheduled events

Catch unique sacred music shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient synagogue in Fez's Mellah, famed for its unique carved wooden staircase and historical significance.

4
(24 reviews)

"Impressive with beautiful and special furniture, and a special carved wooden staircase."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Opening Hours

Some visitors reported finding it closed. Always check in advance to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Prepare for Entry Fee

There is an admission fee to enter the synagogue. Budget accordingly for your visit. :moneybag:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Carved Wooden Staircase

Carved Wooden Staircase

Second Floor Access

An impressive and unique transition to the upper level, featuring intricate carved wood.

Special Furniture

Special Furniture

Main Sanctuary

Admire the beautiful and distinctive furnishings that contribute to the synagogue's unique atmosphere.

Historic Mellah Location

Historic Mellah Location

Fez-Jdid, Jewish Quarter

Experience this ancient synagogue within the heart of Fez's historic Jewish district.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check opening hours before you go, as some visitors found it closed unexpectedly. Confirming access, especially if you're interested in specific events like sacred music shows, is key to a smooth visit.

Entry Fees & Experience

Be prepared for an admission fee. While smaller than some other synagogues, its unique furniture and carved wooden staircase offer a special experience. It's located in the historic Mellah district.

Best Times

When
During scheduled events
Why
Catch unique sacred music shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Potentially fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Confirm Opening Hours

Some visitors reported finding it closed. Always check in advance to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Prepare for Entry Fee

There is an admission fee to enter the synagogue. Budget accordingly for your visit. :moneybag:

Explore the Mellah

The synagogue is in the historic Jewish quarter, so allow time to explore the surrounding area. :world_map:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Opening Hours

Some visitors reported finding it closed. Always check in advance to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Prepare for Entry Fee

There is an admission fee to enter the synagogue. Budget accordingly for your visit. :moneybag:

Explore the Mellah

The synagogue is in the historic Jewish quarter, so allow time to explore the surrounding area. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue impressive for its unique carved wooden staircase and special furniture, despite its smaller size compared to other synagogues. Its location in the historic Mellah adds to its appeal, though some have experienced unexpected closures and note an admission fee.

"A Jewish synagogue in the Malah area where the Jews lived in Pes.
The synagogue is smaller than Abu Dunnan, but impressive in itself with beautiful and special furniture.
The transition to the second floor is special and amazing, everything from carved, special wood"

Itzik levy (Izikl)

"You have to pay to get in"

Yan Liu

"In the Mellah of the spiritual capital of the Kingdom in Fez-Jdid, Fez and in its oldest alley, the Synagogue Al Fassiyine or "Slat Al Fassiyine" has been located for centuries. It is one of the few in Morocco where the non-Sephardic rituals of the Tochavims continued until the 20th century. Reputed to be the oldest in the medina of Fez with the other great synagogue of the Mellah, the Synagogue Aben Danan. It would have been built at the time of the Merinids (between the 13th and 15th centuries). Its current building dates from the 17th century. Leave alone"

Abderrahim Saidi

What People Like

Impressive carved staircase
Beautiful, special furniture
Historic Mellah location

What People Dislike

Unexpected closures
Admission fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The synagogue is located in the Mellah of Fez-Jdid, the historic Jewish quarter. Taxis are a common way to reach this area from other parts of Fez. Walking within the medina is also an option if you are staying nearby, but be prepared for narrow, winding streets.

Yes, it is situated in the Mellah, which is part of the historic medina of Fez. It's considered one of the oldest synagogues in the medina.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an admission fee required to enter the synagogue. It's advisable to have cash on hand for this.

Opening hours can be inconsistent. Some visitors have reported finding it closed unexpectedly. It's highly recommended to confirm the current operating hours before your visit, possibly by contacting local guides or checking recent visitor information.

While not explicitly stated, it's wise to check for any specific closures or altered hours on Fridays, as it is a day of prayer for Muslims in Morocco. Confirming in advance is the best approach.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

It's noted for its beautiful and special furniture, and a particularly impressive carved wooden staircase leading to the second floor. It also holds historical significance as one of the few synagogues in Morocco where non-Sephardic rituals were practiced until the 20th century.

Compared to some other synagogues, it is described as smaller, but still impressive in its own right due to its unique features and historical context.

While not always advertised, local guides in the Mellah area may offer tours that include the synagogue. Engaging a local guide can provide deeper historical context.

🎫 🎶 Events & Activities

Yes, there have been reports of sacred music shows held in the recently refurbished synagogue. Keeping an eye on local event listings or inquiring locally might reveal upcoming performances.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by Jewish history in Morocco, the Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue is a must-visit. Its potential origins in the Merinid era and its role in preserving specific rituals offer a deep dive into the past. The synagogue's presence in the historic Mellah provides context for understanding the vibrant Jewish community that once flourished in Fez. Reddit

Pay close attention to the unique furniture and the impressive carved wooden staircase, which are often cited as highlights. These elements offer tangible connections to the craftsmanship and cultural practices of the time.

Culture Seekers

Visitors interested in Moroccan cultural heritage will find the Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue a compelling stop. It represents a significant facet of Fez's diverse religious and ethnic tapestry. The opportunity to witness a space that maintained distinct traditions for centuries adds a layer of cultural richness to any itinerary. Reddit

Consider visiting if there are any special events, such as sacred music shows, which can offer an immersive cultural experience. Exploring the surrounding Mellah will further enrich your understanding of the area's historical significance.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Historical Significance

The Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue, located in the Mellah of Fez-Jdid, is a testament to the long history of Jewish presence in Morocco. Reputed to be one of the oldest synagogues in Fez, its origins are believed to date back to the Merinid period (13th-15th centuries), with the current structure from the 17th century. It holds particular importance as one of the few places where non-Sephardic rituals of the Tochavims were observed until the 20th century, offering a unique glimpse into diverse Jewish traditions within North Africa. Reddit

Its location within the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, further underscores its cultural and historical context. Exploring this area allows visitors to understand the community that once thrived here. The synagogue stands as a significant landmark, preserving a vital part of Fez's rich, multicultural heritage.

Architectural and Interior Details

While described as smaller than some other synagogues, the Slat al Fassiyine Synagogue captivates visitors with its distinctive interior. The furniture is noted for its beauty and uniqueness, contributing to the sacred atmosphere of the space. A particularly striking feature is the transition to the second floor, which is accomplished via a staircase made of intricately carved wood. This architectural detail is frequently highlighted by visitors as a memorable and artistic element of the synagogue. Reddit

The recent refurbishment has likely enhanced the preservation of these delicate features, ensuring that the synagogue remains an impressive site for those who visit. The combination of historical significance and unique artistic elements makes it a noteworthy destination within Fez.

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