Jewish Cemetery (Mellah) - Image 1
1 / 10

Jewish Cemetery Mellah

4.2
·28 reviews·Fes, Morocco

A serene historical site featuring thousands of white tombs, offering a poignant glimpse into Morocco's Jewish heritage and the story of martyr Solica...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Avoid midday heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Jewish Cemetery (Mellah) - Image 1

Jewish Cemetery Mellah

Best Time

Mornings

Avoid midday heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene historical site featuring thousands of white tombs, offering a poignant glimpse into Morocco's Jewish heritage and the story of martyr Solica.

4.2
(28 reviews)

"A beautiful, well-kept cemetery with a profound history, though be wary of entrance scams."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ignore Fake Guides

Politely refuse unofficial guides and insist on free entry. Say 'Police' if harassed. :noentrysign:

Learn Solica's Story

Research Solica's martyrdom beforehand for a deeper understanding of the site's significance. :book:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Solica's Grave

Solica's Grave

Center of the cemetery

The largest and most prominent grave, marking the site of a young martyr's defiance.

Reddit
Sea of White Tombs

Sea of White Tombs

Southwest corner

Thousands of white tombs stretching down the hill, creating a serene and vast landscape.

Reddit
Rabbi Vidal Hasserfaty's Tomb

Rabbi Vidal Hasserfaty's Tomb

North wall

One of the oldest tombs, dating back to 1600, offering a glimpse into historical figures.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Entrance Fees & Scams

Be aware of unofficial 'guides' at the entrance who may try to charge you for entry or sell unnecessary items like yarmulkes. The cemetery is often free, and insisting you'll call the police can deter scammers. Reddit+1

Understanding Solica's Story

Learning about Solica, a 17-year-old Jewish woman who chose martyrdom over conversion, enhances the visit. Her prominent grave is a central point of interest. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Avoid midday heat
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Quieter, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pasea conmigo por los cementerios de Fes. Te hablo de brujería y de ritos funerarios musulmanes ✨🧙🏼‍♀️ #magia #cementerio #brujeriasdetiktok #brujeria #fes #fez #morocco #misterio #religion #islam #historia #historias ##brujas #brujasdetiktok #historia #misterio #truecrime
@mireiamnebot
35.3K likes • 570.1K views

Ignore Fake Guides

Politely refuse unofficial guides and insist on free entry. Say 'Police' if harassed. Reddit+1 :noentrysign:

Learn Solica's Story

Research Solica's martyrdom beforehand for a deeper understanding of the site's significance. Reddit :book:

#siriabouker #morocco #cementeriojudio
@siriabouker
31K likes • 725.8K views
The Old Historical Jewish Cemetery in Meknes 📍The Old Mellah, Bab Lakhmis - Meknes 🇲🇦 #photography #cemetery #jewish #religion #history #mellah #oldmedina #bablakhmis #meknes #morocco 🇲🇦 #Mido ❤️♠️🎩🎨
kazdar.mohammed
0 likes • 2.4K views

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. TikTok :dress:

Peaceful Oasis

Enjoy the quiet and amazing views, a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Reddit :park:

The Jewish Cemetery in Marrakech is located adjacent to the Mellah quarter inside the medina (walled city). Like many places in the medina, there is no hint that behind the fairly anonymous entrance and perimeter walls lies such a vast space and one of such significance.#www.moroccoprivateguide.com
moroccoprivateguide
10 likes • 202 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ignore Fake Guides

Politely refuse unofficial guides and insist on free entry. Say 'Police' if harassed. Reddit+1 :noentrysign:

Learn Solica's Story

Research Solica's martyrdom beforehand for a deeper understanding of the site's significance. Reddit :book:

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred site. TikTok :dress:

Peaceful Oasis

Enjoy the quiet and amazing views, a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Reddit :park:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Jewish Cemetery a well-kept and peaceful site, offering a unique glimpse into Morocco's rich Jewish heritage. The story of Solica and the vast expanse of white tombs are particularly memorable. However, some travelers report encountering persistent scammers at the entrance attempting to charge for entry or sell unnecessary items.

"in this area all the Jewish alowd to live in Fez
you can see the way they used to live and to see the Beit Ha'Cahim cemetery where the famous grave Solica, her grave is the bigest and on the center of the cemetery, you cant miss it.
Solica was a jewish woman that didn't agree to be moslim and to marri moslim man that wanted her as his wife, she prefer to die and not be moslim. she was only 17"

Itzik levy (Izikl)

"Well kept cemetery. The price of admission is a small fee they use to keep the place looking respectful.

You should learn about the martyr named Solica before arriving in order to understand the significance of her tomb."

Marco Ramos

"Be warned... The cemetery is a nice quiet place but there are random people at the door that try to get you to pay for entrance and say you must buy a yarmulka from them to enter. The cemetery is free and if you insist that you will call the police they will leave you alone. We saw multiple tourists handing over money to enter and I cannot give this place a better review until they handle this sad situation."

m s

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Historical significance
Solica's story

What People Dislike

Scammers at entrance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Jewish Cemetery, often referred to as Beit Ha'Cahim, is located within the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) of Fes. It's accessible by taxi or a walk through the medina. Many visitors find it near Bab Guisa or Bab Maruk. TikTok

The Jewish Cemetery in Marrakech is situated adjacent to the Mellah quarter, inside the medina. It has a fairly anonymous entrance behind perimeter walls, so look for signs or ask locals for directions to the Mellah. Instagram

Yes, the Old Historical Jewish Cemetery in Meknes is located in the Old Mellah, near Bab Lakhmis. It's a significant historical site reflecting the Jewish heritage of the city. Instagram

Indeed, historical Jewish cemeteries can be found in various regions of Morocco, including the Ouirgane Valley in the Atlas Mountains, which was part of a Mellah community. Instagram

The Mellah is a historic Jewish quarter found in many Moroccan cities. These areas were traditionally where Jewish communities lived, and often contain synagogues and cemeteries. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While some unofficial guides may try to charge, the cemetery is often free to enter. There might be a small fee for upkeep, but be wary of inflated prices or mandatory purchases. Reddit+1

No, you do not need to buy a yarmulke to enter. This is a common tactic used by scammers at the entrance. Simply insist on free entry. Reddit+1

Yes, the cemetery is still in use and has guardians who help maintain the site and ensure its respectful upkeep. Reddit

Specific opening hours can vary, but it's generally best to visit during daylight hours. Mornings are often recommended to avoid crowds and heat. TikTok

Yes, the cemetery is open to visitors of all backgrounds who wish to learn about its history and significance. Respectful behavior is expected. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Solica was a 17-year-old Jewish woman who refused to convert to Islam or marry a Muslim man, choosing death instead. Her grave is the largest and most central in the cemetery, a symbol of her martyrdom. Reddit

You'll see a vast expanse of white tombs, including the prominent grave of Solica and older tombs of rabbis like Rabbi Vidal Hasserfaty. The cemetery offers a peaceful atmosphere and historical insights. Reddit

Generally, the cemetery is described as well-kept, with guardians ensuring it remains respectful. A small admission fee, if charged, contributes to its upkeep. Reddit

Besides Solica's grave, look for the tomb of Rabbi Vidal Hasserfaty, one of the oldest, dating back to 1600. Tombs in dedicated enclosures are often those of rabbis. Reddit

The sea of white tombs and the historical architecture make it a visually striking location for photography, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The sweeping views of the white tombs stretching down the hill are particularly photogenic. The contrast of the white stones against the sky or surrounding landscape is striking. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful and respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive shots and focus on capturing the atmosphere and historical elements. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the tombs, offering a more dramatic and atmospheric photographic experience. Instagram

Drone photography is typically not permitted in sensitive historical or religious sites without special permits. It's best to assume it's not allowed. Instagram

A wide-angle lens can capture the vastness of the cemetery, while a prime lens can be useful for focusing on specific details of the tombs or inscriptions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Jewish Cemetery can be an educational experience for families, offering a tangible connection to history. While the site is peaceful, it's important to prepare children for the solemn nature of a cemetery. Focus on the stories, like that of Solica, which can be a powerful lesson in courage and conviction. Reddit Ensure children understand the importance of respectful behavior within the grounds. TikTok

Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones. The vastness of the white tombs can be visually engaging for children, sparking curiosity about different cultures and historical periods. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can find the Jewish Cemetery a place of quiet contemplation and historical discovery. Be prepared for potential scam attempts at the entrance and remain firm in your refusal of unofficial guides. Reddit+1 Once inside, the cemetery offers a peaceful atmosphere to explore at your own pace. Reddit

Learning about Solica's story beforehand can enrich the solo experience, providing context and a focal point for reflection. The cemetery's historical significance and unique landscape make it a memorable stop for any solo adventurer seeking cultural immersion. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Jewish Cemetery presents a unique photographic opportunity with its striking visual landscape of countless white tombs. The sea of white tombs stretching down the hill is particularly iconic and offers dramatic compositions. InstagramReddit Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best atmosphere and textures. Instagram

While photography is generally permitted, always maintain respect for the sacred nature of the site. Focus on capturing the historical details, the scale of the cemetery, and the serene ambiance. Avoid intrusive shots and be mindful of any ongoing burials or ceremonies. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mellah: A Historical Jewish Quarter

The Mellah (meaning 'salt' in Arabic) was a designated quarter in Moroccan cities where Jewish communities historically resided. These areas were often walled and had their own distinct character, including synagogues, markets, and cemeteries. Visiting the Jewish Cemetery is intrinsically linked to understanding the history of the Mellah itself, offering a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Jewish population that once thrived in these cities. TikTokInstagram

In Fes, the Mellah is one of the oldest in Morocco, and its proximity to the Jewish Cemetery underscores the deep historical connection. Similarly, Marrakech and Meknes also boast significant Mellah quarters, each with its own unique historical narrative. Exploring these areas provides context for the religious and cultural heritage preserved within their cemeteries. Instagram+1

Solica: A Symbol of Faith and Defiance

The story of Solica, a young Jewish woman from Fes, is a poignant tale of faith and resistance. At just 17 years old, she refused to convert to Islam or marry a Muslim man who desired her, choosing death over compromising her beliefs. Her martyrdom has made her grave a significant site within the Jewish Cemetery, often marked as the largest and most centrally located tomb. Reddit

Understanding Solica's sacrifice adds a profound layer to the visit. It transforms the cemetery from a mere collection of graves into a place of historical and spiritual importance, highlighting the resilience of the Jewish community in Morocco. Many visitors are moved by her story and seek out her grave to pay their respects. Reddit

Navigating Scams and Ensuring a Respectful Visit

Unfortunately, some visitors to the Jewish Cemetery have encountered scams at the entrance. Unofficial guides may try to charge exorbitant fees for entry or pressure visitors into buying items like yarmulkes, which are not required. It's crucial to be aware of these tactics and to firmly but politely refuse any unsolicited services or demands for payment. Reddit+1

Travelers often report that simply stating you will call the police can deter these individuals. The cemetery itself is often free to enter, or has a nominal fee for upkeep. By being informed and assertive, you can avoid these unpleasant encounters and ensure your visit is focused on appreciating the historical and spiritual significance of this unique site. Reddit+2

You may also like

1 of 2