Nahon Synagogue
A beautiful Sephardi synagogue in Tangier's Medina, preserving Jewish heritage and symbolizing Moroccan coexistence.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Nahon Synagogue
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful Sephardi synagogue in Tangier's Medina, preserving Jewish heritage and symbolizing Moroccan coexistence.
"A precious moment in Tangier: Moroccan Jews at the Moshe Nahon Synagogue. A living memory of coexistence."
🎯 Hidden Medina Location
It's tricky to find! Ask locals or look for subtle signs in the old Medina.
💰 Custodian's Donation
A small tip (around 20DH) is expected for the custodian who opens the doors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sanctuary's Beauty
Main prayer hall
Admire the elegant silver candelabras and lamps, many donated in memory of loved ones.
Upstairs Exhibition Hall
Women's gallery
Explore historical Ketubas, wedding agreements, and prayer artifacts, offering a glimpse into Jewish life.
A Symbol of Coexistence
Exterior and interior
Experience a precious moment of Moroccan Jewish heritage and the beauty of interfaith harmony.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Hidden Gem
Respectful Visits & Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hidden Medina Location
It's tricky to find! Ask locals or look for subtle signs in the old Medina.
💰 Custodian's Donation
A small tip (around 20DH) is expected for the custodian who opens the doors.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be respectful during prayer times.
📜 Tiny Historical Museum
Don't miss the small exhibition room with specific Jewish event artifacts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hidden Medina Location
It's tricky to find! Ask locals or look for subtle signs in the old Medina.
💰 Custodian's Donation
A small tip (around 20DH) is expected for the custodian who opens the doors.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be respectful during prayer times.
📜 Tiny Historical Museum
Don't miss the small exhibition room with specific Jewish event artifacts.
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a house of prayer and a significant cultural site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Nahon Synagogue as a beautiful and historically significant site, offering a glimpse into Tangier's Jewish heritage and the beauty of coexistence. While finding it can be a challenge due to its hidden location in the Medina, the experience of exploring its prayer hall and exhibition is highly rewarding. A small donation to the custodian is customary and appreciated.
"It’s a beautiful house of prayer, but it was very difficult to find. I wanted to visit all the synagogues in the city. There were, as they were all in the exact location, but it was challenging to find them as they were very hidden in the crazy system of the old Medina style."
Presteyqah
"This is the only one synagogue left and open to public in Tangier. Of the same street there were at least 4 others, but are not open to public. Another former synagogue that is possible to visit is a Fondation Lorin museum, which in in synagogal building hosting exhibition of photos and other documents about Tangier history.
Nahon synagogue is open during the week regularly, during Saturday also, but only the upper women's gallery. Photography is allowed. Synagogue is in use occasionally, together with Shaarey Rephael synagogue in the new city, but there are barely Jews left in Tangier. Still, there is a Rabbi of Tangier community - Jacob Tordjman.
Synagogue is very nicely decorated with silver candelabras and lamps. You can see the donation plates of different artifact that people donated to remember the soul of their closest that pass away. Upper gallery is used as a exhibition hall, and showing the Ketubas, wedding agreement lists, some on paper, but handmade embroidery, and also other artifacts used for prayers, and in different stages of Jewish life.
Very important reminder of Jewish present in Morocco, and specifically in Tangier.
There is guardian living in property, just ring the bell, and he will open for you. Donation expected (20DH)."
Tomi Valny
"Good to visit while in Tangier, especially for lovers of history and social culture. I have always been astonished by the Jewish history and the history of religions… Don’t miss visiting the little exhibition in a small private room that held a private but important collection of some specific Jewish events in Tangier. I wish I could get some fund to study the Jewish community in the city; past and present !"
Khalid al-Azri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nahon Synagogue is located within the old Medina of Tangier. It can be challenging to find as it's hidden within the Medina's winding streets. Travelers recommend asking locals for directions or looking for subtle signs. Some visitors found it locked initially but were able to get access by finding the custodian nearby.
Public transport within the Medina is limited. The best approach is to reach the Medina's edge by taxi or bus and then navigate the pedestrian-only streets on foot.
Using a map app on your phone can help, but be prepared for the Medina's maze-like layout. Relying on local guidance is often the most effective method.
The synagogue is situated within the historic Jewish quarter of the Medina. Specific landmarks can be elusive, so focusing on directions to the 'Jewish quarter' or 'Nahon Synagogue' is key.
No, the old Medina is largely pedestrianized. You will need to park outside the Medina and walk the rest of the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Nahon Synagogue is generally free, but a donation to the custodian is expected and appreciated. This helps with the upkeep of this historic site.
The synagogue is open regularly during the week and also on Saturdays, though Saturday access might be limited to the upper women's gallery. It's best to check locally or ask the custodian for specific times, as they can vary.
Yes, the synagogue is open on Saturdays, primarily for the upper women's gallery. Some visitors have reported services starting between 10-11 am, but access can sometimes be restricted or locked.
A donation of around 20 Moroccan Dirhams (DH) is commonly suggested and appreciated by the custodian.
If the synagogue appears locked, look for the custodian who lives on the property or is often sitting nearby. Ringing the bell or asking around should grant you access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully decorated prayer halls with silver candelabras and lamps. The upper gallery serves as an exhibition space showcasing Ketubas, wedding agreements, and artifacts related to Jewish life and prayer.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Nahon Synagogue. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of any ongoing services or prayers.
The donation plates on display are from individuals who donated artifacts to remember the souls of their departed loved ones, adding a personal and historical layer to the synagogue's decor.
While not always formal, the custodian often provides a guided tour, sharing insights into the synagogue's history and its contents.
This refers to a small private room that holds a curated collection of specific Jewish events and artifacts related to Tangier's history, offering a more intimate look at the community.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior, with its ornate candelabras and the exhibition hall displaying Ketubas, offers unique photographic opportunities. The view from the bimah (pulpit) can also be striking.
While photography is generally permitted, it's advisable to be discreet and avoid flash photography during prayer times or services to show respect.
Visitors often capture the architectural details, the historical artifacts in the exhibition, and the overall ambiance that reflects the Jewish heritage in Morocco. 
Yes, the exterior can be photographed, but remember it's nestled within the Medina, so the surrounding environment will be part of the shot.
Morning light can be beautiful inside the synagogue, illuminating the details. Consider visiting during quieter hours to avoid crowds and allow for more relaxed photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the Medina can be crowded, so holding hands and keeping a close eye on children is advisable. The custodian is usually friendly and might be able to share simplified stories about the synagogue's history, making it more engaging for younger visitors.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
The exhibition in the upper gallery provides deeper insights into Jewish life, showcasing Ketubas and other artifacts that tell stories of traditions, community, and faith.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Jewish Heritage of Tangier
While the Jewish population in Tangier has significantly dwindled, the synagogue remains a vital link to this rich past, symbolizing the beauty of coexistence in Morocco. +1 Its preservation is a testament to the ongoing efforts to maintain this cultural legacy. Today, the synagogue is not only a place of occasional prayer but also a cultural hub. The upper gallery has been transformed into an exhibition hall, showcasing historical artifacts like Ketubas (marriage contracts), prayer items, and documents that narrate the story of Jewish life in Tangier.
Navigating the Medina to Find the Synagogue
To increase your chances of success, it's recommended to ask locals for directions to the 'Jewish quarter' or specifically for the 'Nahon Synagogue.' While map apps can provide a general idea, the Medina's narrow passages might not always be accurately represented.
Social
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