El Ghriba Synagogue Djerba
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El Ghriba Synagogue Djerba

4.2
·910 reviews·Hara Sghira Er Riadh, Tunisia

Africa's oldest synagogue, a historic Jewish pilgrimage site on Djerba, boasting stunning blue tile work and deep cultural roots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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El Ghriba Synagogue Djerba

El Ghriba Synagogue Djerba

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Africa's oldest synagogue, a historic Jewish pilgrimage site on Djerba, boasting stunning blue tile work and deep cultural roots.

4.2
(910 reviews)

"A place full of history that showcases the rich Jewish heritage of Djerba."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees. Caps/headscarves provided if needed. :dress:

🗺️ Navigate Wisely

Google Maps can be tricky. Look for police checkpoints as a guide. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Architecture

Ancient Architecture

Interior

Marvel at the stunning blue tile work and arches, showcasing centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.

Reddit
Rich Jewish Heritage

Rich Jewish Heritage

Synagogue grounds

Experience the deep history and cultural significance of Africa's oldest synagogue.

Instagram+1
Pilgrimage Site

Pilgrimage Site

Synagogue grounds

Witness a vibrant center for Jewish communities and a key pilgrimage destination.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting El Ghriba Synagogue. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Staff can provide headscarves or caps if needed, but it's best to come prepared to show respect for this significant religious site. Reddit

Navigating Djerba's Roads

Google Maps can be unreliable on Djerba. Look for police checkpoints as an indicator you're nearing the synagogue. Planning your route in advance or asking locals for directions is recommended to avoid getting lost. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
During Lag B'Omer
Why
Experience vibrant celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Une attaque s’est deroulée en Tunisie, proche d’une synagogue, à Djerba. Voici ce qu’il faut savoir. #tunis #tunisie #djerba
@brutofficiel
18.6K likes • 448.7K views

🧥 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees. Caps/headscarves provided if needed. Reddit :dress:

🗺️ Navigate Wisely

Google Maps can be tricky. Look for police checkpoints as a guide. Reddit :world_map:

Au moins quatre personnes tu**s, dont un Français, lors de l’attaque d’une synagogue en Tunisie #djerba #ghriba #tunisie
@bfmtv
15K likes • 291.9K views
El Ghriba Synagogue, Djerba, Tunisia 🇹🇳 The ancient El Ghriba Synagogue was originally established by refugees from Judaia after the Babylonians conquered the land and destroyed the holy temple of Solomon in 586 BCE. It is believed that the Jews brought with them a stone from the temple and incorporated it into the synagogues original foundation. Today, the synagogue attracts pilgrims from around...
ayidstravels
127 likes • 1.2K views

💰 Donations Appreciated

Admission is free, but donations support the synagogue. Reddit :moneybag:

📸 Capture the Beauty

The interior is smaller than photos suggest, but incredibly detailed. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Rosh Chodesh Elul, El Ghriba synagogue- Djerba, Tunisia by Rafael Koso Elya. 🇮🇱🇹🇳🪬❤️🌷 Chodesh Tov !
meir.yuda
54 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees. Caps/headscarves provided if needed. Reddit :dress:

🗺️ Navigate Wisely

Google Maps can be tricky. Look for police checkpoints as a guide. Reddit :world_map:

💰 Donations Appreciated

Admission is free, but donations support the synagogue. Reddit :moneybag:

📸 Capture the Beauty

The interior is smaller than photos suggest, but incredibly detailed. Reddit :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(910 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise El Ghriba Synagogue for its rich history and stunning, albeit small, interior with beautiful blue tile work. It's considered a significant cultural and religious landmark on Djerba, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into the island's Jewish heritage. Some note that navigation can be tricky and suggest dressing modestly.

"A place full of history that showcases the rich Jewish heritage of Djerba.

Visiting the El Ghriba Synagogue was a truly special experience. The atmosphere is peaceful, the architecture is stunning, and you can feel the centuries of tradition and cultural coexistence within its walls.

It’s more than just a religious site.

Definitely a must-visit when in Djerba."

Ahmed Bahri

"Very old and authentic synagogue located in the heart of Djerba island. Very interesting place. Be vary that google maps do not work well in the island and thus you may end up at someone's property instead, just as I ended up. Look for a police control point and that is the indicator you are at the right place."

Tim Kudryavtsev

"Beautiful historic synagogue on the island of Djerba. Free admission though donations to the synagogue are appreciated."

Y B

What People Like

Rich Jewish heritage
Stunning interior
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Navigation challenges
Smaller than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The synagogue is located in the village of Erriadh (formerly Hara Seghira) on Djerba island. While Google Maps can be unreliable, look for police checkpoints as an indicator you are close. Taxis or rental cars are common ways to reach the site. Reddit

Parking can be limited, especially during peak times or festivals. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance from where you park. Reddit

Many visitors use taxis or rent a car to explore Djerba. Public transport options might be less frequent, so a taxi or car offers more flexibility to reach the synagogue and other sites. Reddit

While not always formally advertised, local guides may be available at or near the synagogue. Inquiring locally or through your accommodation can help arrange a guided visit. Instagram

From Houmt El Souk, the main town, it's a short drive, typically around 15-20 minutes. Other areas of the island will take longer depending on your starting point. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to El Ghriba Synagogue is generally free. However, donations are highly appreciated to help maintain this historic site. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or with your accommodation. Generally, it's open during daylight hours, but specific times might differ. Instagram

No, there is no mandatory entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation to support the upkeep of the synagogue. Reddit

Yes, it's a significant pilgrimage site, especially during holidays like Lag B'Omer. Be aware that it will be much more crowded during these times. InstagramReddit

Visitors are required to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Head coverings are also recommended or may be provided. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Modest attire is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. If you forget, headscarves or caps are usually available at the entrance. Reddit

Information on accessibility can be limited. It's advisable to contact the synagogue directly or inquire locally about specific facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted, but it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking pictures, especially of individuals. Be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in exploring the history and architecture. It's noted as being smaller than it appears in photos. Reddit

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and filled with a sense of history and tradition. It's a place that evokes centuries of cultural coexistence. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The interior, with its intricate blue tile work and arches, is a popular subject. The exterior architecture and the surrounding village also offer picturesque opportunities. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and the sanctity of the site. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb others. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Given the potentially dim lighting inside, a lens with good low-light performance or a tripod (if permitted) can be helpful. Instagram

Focus on the detailed tile work, the menorah, and any historical inscriptions. The contrast between the blue and white interiors is visually striking. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in religious and populated areas. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting El Ghriba Synagogue can be an educational experience for families. While the site itself is relatively small, the history and unique architecture can spark curiosity in children. Reddit Ensure children are dressed modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a requirement for entry. Reddit The peaceful atmosphere might be conducive to a calmer visit, but keep in mind that it is a religious site, so maintaining respectful behavior is important. Consider visiting during less crowded times to make the experience more manageable with younger ones. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

El Ghriba Synagogue is an excellent destination for budget travelers as admission is free. Reddit While donations are encouraged to support the upkeep of this historic site, there's no mandatory fee, making it an accessible cultural experience. Reddit The main costs will likely be transportation to Djerba and getting to the synagogue itself. Utilizing local transport options where available or sharing taxi fares can help keep costs down. Instagram

🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and culture, El Ghriba Synagogue is a must-visit. Its claim as the oldest synagogue in Africa, with origins dating back over 2,000 years, offers a profound connection to ancient Jewish heritage. Instagram+1 The intricate interior, adorned with blue tiles and arches, is a visual delight and a testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras. Reddit Understanding its role as a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of enduring community life adds layers to its historical importance. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enduring History of El Ghriba

El Ghriba Synagogue is not just a building; it's a living testament to a Jewish community that has thrived on Djerba for over two millennia. Established by refugees from Judea after the Babylonian conquest in 586 BCE, it's believed to incorporate a stone from the original Temple of Solomon into its foundation. Instagram This deep historical connection makes it one of the oldest continuously functioning synagogues in the world and the oldest in Africa. Instagram+1

The synagogue is a significant site for Jewish pilgrimage, particularly during the festival of Lag B'Omer. InstagramReddit It represents a unique history of coexistence and cultural exchange on the island of Djerba, making it a vital landmark for understanding the region's rich heritage. TikTokInstagram

Despite facing challenges, including a tragic attack in 2023, the spirit of El Ghriba endures. TikTok+1 Its resilience highlights its importance not only as a religious center but also as a symbol of cultural continuity and the enduring Jewish presence in Tunisia. Instagram

Navigating Djerba: Tips from Travelers

Getting around Djerba and finding specific locations like El Ghriba Synagogue can sometimes be a challenge, as noted by travelers. Google Maps is often reported as being unreliable on the island, leading to potential detours or confusion. Reddit A key tip from visitors is to look for police checkpoints; these often indicate you are nearing the correct destination, including the synagogue. Reddit

For a smoother experience, planning your route in advance is highly recommended. Asking locals for directions is also a good strategy, as they are familiar with the island's nuances. Reddit Taxis and rental cars are the most common and convenient modes of transport for tourists looking to explore Djerba and reach sites like El Ghriba. Instagram+1

When visiting, remember that modest dress is required. While staff can provide headscarves or caps, it's best to come prepared with your own attire covering shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. Reddit

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