Step through the unassuming doorway and into the Ibn Danan Synagogue. This unassuming entrance is a stark contrast to the richly ornamented interior. The Ibn Danan Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in Morocco and the oldest in Fes. It was built in the 17th century by Mimon Boussidan, a wealthy merchant. It was built against the outer wall of the Mellah, the Jewish quarter, in a space where other amenities for the community had once stood. Its construction reflects the rich history and vibrancy of Fes’s Jewish community, which once numbered over 22,000. The synagogue is named after the Danan family, who were among the most prominent merchants in Fez. They were known for their generosity and dedication to their community. For over 100 years, from 1812 until its closure in the 1960s, the synagogue’s rabbis were all from the Danan family. It was restored in 1999 after a prolonged period of renovation. The Ibn Danan Synagogue is a testament to the Jewish cultural heritage in Morocco and a vibrant reminder of the city’s diverse history. It is one of the most intact synagogues in the country and continues to be a place of worship and culture. For centuries, the Ibn Danan Synagogue served as a focal point for the Jewish community of Fez. It was a place of prayer, learning, and community gatherings. Today, it continues to serve as a vital link to the past and a symbol of the vibrant Jewish culture that has enriched Morocco for centuries.
Camp International
“Haggling is part of Moroccan culture” someone once told me. Here at Camp International, near the captivating city of Fes,