Ibn Danan Synagogue, Fes

Dating from the 17th century, the Ibn Danan Synagogue would have disappeared if it had not been renovated in the year 1999, after it threatened to collapse. It is the symbol of Moroccan Judaism, which has become a universal monument named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Now it is not only a place of worship but also a museum.

The synagogue was built by Mimoun Ben Sidan, a wealthy merchant from the town of Ait Ishaq. It was once only one of several inside the walls of Fes, and not the most elaborate. It is entered through a simple doorway indistinguishable from the doors of nearby houses. The door leads immediately to a short flight of stairs that lead into the high, rectangular space of the synagogue. It was intended as a seating area for the congregation's more distinguished members. The bimah is accessed from this space, constructed as a small platform cantilevered out form the raised area. The wooden bimah is topped by a wrought iron canopy of Islamic-style arches and floral forms, culminating in a crown.

Why You Should Visit:
Beautiful piece of history with a very old and rare Torah – a good way to see the mixture of religions in Fes.

Tip:
Don't miss the rooftop panorama over the valley and Jewish cemetery! There's also a nice 'mikvah' (Jewish ritual bath) downstairs.
If you don't know anything about synagogues or Jews, come with a guide. If you are not interested in Jewish history or religion, skip it.