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Jewish Cemetery Tangier

4.6
·18 reviews·Tangier, Morocco

Tangier's ancient Jewish Cemetery, Beit Hahayim, holds thousands of tombs dating to the 16th century, offering a serene glimpse into the city's multic...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Guardian is present

CrowdLow
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The only way to view with a selfie stick

Jewish Cemetery Tangier

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Guardian is present

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tangier's ancient Jewish Cemetery, Beit Hahayim, holds thousands of tombs dating to the 16th century, offering a serene glimpse into the city's multicultural past.

4.6
(18 reviews)

"A well-kept, sizable cemetery with a kind guardian and beautiful ocean views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Tip the Guardian

A small donation (around 20 dirhams) is appreciated for the upkeep of this historic site. :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Guide

The friendly guardian offers guided tours, sharing valuable historical insights. :informationdeskperson:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Tombs

Ancient Tombs

Throughout the cemetery

Discover thousands of graves, some dating back to the 16th century, offering a glimpse into Tangier's rich Jewish history.

Ocean Views

Ocean Views

Far end of the cemetery

Enjoy serene views of the ocean and port from this historic resting place, adding a unique perspective to your visit.

Guardian's Insights

Guardian's Insights

Entrance

Engage with the kind, English-speaking guardian who can share stories and point out the graves of revered rabbis and scholars.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visit

This is a place of remembrance. Dress modestly, speak softly, and be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Tipping the guardian is customary and appreciated for their upkeep of this historic space.

Best Time to Explore

Visit during weekday mornings when the friendly guardian is typically present and can offer insights. The cemetery is open to the public, and while there's no admission fee, a donation for upkeep is encouraged.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Guardian is present
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Miara Cemetery, Pemakaman umat yahudi terbesar di maroko #travelwithdjunaed #yahudi #marrakech #marrakesh #tiktoktravel #travellife #moroccotravel
@arefen.djunaed
12.1K likes • 628.5K views

🤝 Tip the Guardian

A small donation (around 20 dirhams) is appreciated for the upkeep of this historic site. :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Guide

The friendly guardian offers guided tours, sharing valuable historical insights. :informationdeskperson:

Beit Hahayim - Jewish Cemetery of Tangier
emirhaiyawi
6 likes • 833 views
The Jewish Cemetery of Tangier, also known as Beit Hahayim, is the city’s oldest Jewish burial ground, with some tombs dating back to the 16th century. Located just outside the medina walls between Rue Portugal and Rue de la Plage, the cemetery contains over 1,000 graves, including those of revered rabbis, scholars, and merchants. Inscriptions on the tombstones are in Hebrew, Spanish, Portuguese, ...
riskyorlucky
4 likes • 256 views

🌊 Ocean Views

Head to the far end for peaceful views of the ocean and port. :ocean:

Combine with Legation

Easily pair your visit with the nearby American Legation Museum. :museum:

For our new friends Julie and Jeff. The Jewish cemetery in Tangier, Morocco, contains more than 1,000 graves, some of them dating back to the 16th century. The Jewish presence in Tangier was limited until the late 17th century, when the Muslims regained control of the city from the English. The local economy did not recover from the destruction caused by the English until the eighteenth century, ...
twoleostravels
9 likes • 175 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Tip the Guardian

A small donation (around 20 dirhams) is appreciated for the upkeep of this historic site. :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore with a Guide

The friendly guardian offers guided tours, sharing valuable historical insights. :informationdeskperson:

🌊 Ocean Views

Head to the far end for peaceful views of the ocean and port. :ocean:

Combine with Legation

Easily pair your visit with the nearby American Legation Museum. :museum:

Dress Modestly

Respect the sacred nature of the cemetery by dressing conservatively. :dress:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(18 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Jewish Cemetery of Tangier for its historical significance and the kindness of its guardian. Many are impressed by the sheer number of ancient tombs and the serene ocean views. While generally well-maintained, some note that further investment could enhance its condition, but the overall experience is deeply appreciated as a vital piece of Tangier's multicultural heritage.

"Well kept old and quite sizeable Jewish cemetery (no longer used I don't believe). Make sure you tip the guard a few coins on the way out."

Stephen Rubenstein

"The old man who takes care of the cemetery since decades is very kind, speaks perfect French and good English, it's cool that they kept this cultural heritage but seems like they don't invest money to renovation or keep it in good condition, and I think they should because it has historic value and can show how people can respect others culture."

N B

"I have lived for years in Tangier and never visited the Beit Hahayim Jewish Cemetery until February 2022. A few people I have known are buried here.

The gate was open and I saw the friendly English-speaking gardien, who kindly walked me all around the cemetery, occasionally pointing out graves of various rabbis.

It was much larger than I imagined, filled with thousands of graves with stone markers. There is even a view of the ocean and port from the far end.

The many palm trees made the cemetery more beautiful, and overall it seemed well maintained. The place was packed with thousands of tombs with stone markers.

By comparison, it's smaller than the other cemeteries in Tangier: Boubana, Moujhajdine, Souani, St. Andrews' Cemetery and another one on the Marshan.

One of my acquaintances, who managed the Librairie des Colonnes book store for many years, is buried here.

Beit Hahayim Cemetery is open to the public and there is no charge for admission, but if you wish, you may leave a donation of any amount in a box near the entrance gates.

The entrance is at Rue de la Plage and Rue Portugal."

Kenneth Tangerois3 Maroc

What People Like

Historical significance
Kind and informative guardian
Ocean views

What People Dislike

Could use more renovation

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Jewish Cemetery, also known as Beit Hahayim, is located between Rue de la Plage and Rue Portugal, just outside the medina walls. It's easily accessible by taxi or a moderate walk from the city center. Reddit

Yes, the entrance is typically open on weekday mornings and is located at the intersection of Rue de la Plage and Rue Portugal. Look for the friendly guardian who usually waits near the entrance. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Kasbah area, taking you through parts of the city. It offers a good opportunity to see more of Tangier. Instagram

From the Medina, you can walk towards the coast, following signs for Rue de la Plage. It's a straightforward route, and the cemetery is a well-known landmark. Reddit

The American Legation Museum is located right next door, making it convenient to visit both sites together. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no official admission charge to enter the Jewish Cemetery. However, it is customary and highly recommended to leave a donation in the box near the entrance to support the upkeep of the grounds. Reddit

The cemetery is often open on weekday mornings. It's best to visit during these times to ensure the guardian is present to guide you. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required. You can visit during the typical opening hours. Reddit

While it's often open on weekday mornings, weekend access might be less predictable. It's advisable to aim for a weekday visit to guarantee access and the guardian's presence. Reddit

It's unlikely to gain access outside of the typical morning hours, as the guardian manages entry and tours. Sticking to weekday mornings is your best bet. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find thousands of ancient tombs, some dating back to the 16th century, offering a profound historical experience. The cemetery is also home to serene ocean views and is maintained by a dedicated guardian. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Instagram

The cemetery is generally well-maintained, with thousands of graves and palm trees adding to its beauty. The guardian plays a key role in its upkeep. Reddit

It's one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Morocco and a vital piece of Tangier's multicultural heritage, showcasing a significant Jewish presence throughout history. TikTokInstagram

While the entire cemetery is significant, the far end offers particularly beautiful views of the ocean and port. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient tombstones, especially those with intricate carvings, offer compelling photographic subjects. The serene ocean views from the far end also make for beautiful shots. InstagramReddit

It's generally acceptable to photograph the graves, but always do so with respect. Avoid intrusive shots and be mindful of the solemnity of the location. Instagram

If you wish to photograph the guardian, it's polite to ask for their permission first. They are often happy to be part of the experience. Instagram

Morning light can be soft and atmospheric, ideal for capturing the textures of the tombstones and the overall mood of the cemetery. Instagram

There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid drone use in such sensitive locations unless explicitly permitted. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Jewish Cemetery is a place of solemn remembrance, it can still be an educational visit for families. The sheer number of ancient tombstones can spark curiosity about history and different cultures. Instagram The guardian's presence can make the visit more engaging for children, as he often shares stories in an accessible way. Reddit Encourage children to be respectful and quiet, explaining the importance of visiting a cemetery. The views of the ocean can also be a pleasant distraction for younger visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find the Jewish Cemetery a peaceful and reflective place to explore. The guardian's friendly demeanor and willingness to engage in conversation can make for a more personal and informative visit. InstagramReddit It's an excellent opportunity to learn about Tangier's multicultural past at your own pace. The cemetery's location near the American Legation Museum also makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Jewish Cemetery offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The ancient tombstones, with their varied inscriptions and weathered textures, provide excellent subjects. Instagram The serene ocean views from the far end of the cemetery offer a different photographic perspective. Reddit Visiting in the morning light can create a beautiful, soft atmosphere for capturing the mood of the site. Remember to be respectful while framing your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Tangier's Jewish Heritage

The Jewish Cemetery of Tangier, also known as Beit Hahayim, stands as a poignant testament to the city's diverse historical tapestry. With some tombs dating back to the 16th century, it is considered one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Morocco and a significant cultural heritage site. TikTokInstagram The presence of Jewish communities in Tangier has a long and complex history, with periods of significant growth and decline. This cemetery serves as a physical reminder of those who lived, worked, and are laid to rest in this vibrant port city. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the sheer scale of the cemetery, filled with thousands of graves marked by stone markers. Reddit The cemetery's location offers unexpected views of the ocean and port, adding a unique and serene dimension to the experience. Reddit It's a place where history whispers through the ancient stones, inviting reflection on the multicultural past of Tangier. The cemetery's preservation is a shared effort, with a dedicated guardian ensuring its continued existence. Instagram

The Role of the Guardian

A recurring theme in visitor experiences is the presence and kindness of the cemetery's guardian. This dedicated individual, often an older gentleman, has been looking after the site for decades and plays a crucial role in its upkeep and accessibility. Reddit Many visitors highlight his friendliness and willingness to share knowledge, often speaking perfect French and good English. Reddit He guides visitors around the grounds, pointing out notable graves and offering historical context, transforming a simple visit into an enriching cultural exchange. InstagramReddit

His dedication ensures that this historic site remains a place of respect and remembrance. Visitors are encouraged to show their appreciation through a small donation, which directly contributes to the maintenance of the cemetery. Reddit This interaction with the guardian is often cited as a highlight, providing a personal connection to the history and a deeper understanding of the site's significance. Instagram

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