A Walk Through the Mellah: Morocco's Jewish Quarters

Stepping through the fortified gates of Morocco's historic Mellahs is like entering a world frozen in time.

Once vibrant Jewish communities, the Mellahs now stand as a testament to Morocco's diverse past.

The Mellahs, or Jewish quarters, of Morocco were once bustling centers of Jewish life. Today, they stand as a testament to Morocco's diverse past and a reminder of the vibrant Jewish community that once called this country home.

Stepping through the fortified gates of a Mellah is like entering a world frozen in time. The narrow streets, lined with whitewashed houses and traditional Moroccan shops, are a far cry from the bustling souks of the medina. Here, the air is heavy with the scent of incense and the sound of Hebrew prayers echoing from the nearby synagogue.

Once home to thousands of Jews, the Mellahs are now largely abandoned. Many Jews left Morocco after the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, and those who remained have since dwindled in number. Today, only a few hundred Jews live in Morocco, and the Mellahs are a fading reminder of a once-prosperous community.

Despite their decline, the Mellahs remain an important part of Morocco's cultural heritage. They are a reminder of the country's rich history of religious tolerance and a symbol of the vibrant Jewish community that once called Morocco home.