Morocco’s Essaouira stands as a timeless beacon of openness and coexistence, embodying the harmonious relations between Muslims, Jews, and Christians, in the present day and since 2,500 years ago. Rooted in centuries of shared history and spiritual richness, this ancient city remains a symbol of unity and a fortified fortress against any attempts to disrupt its enduring principles of tolerance and peace, “travel” wrote.
Essaouira’s unique identity highlights Morocco’s commitment to preserving diversity and advancing its cultural heritage. The recent restoration of “Slat Lkahal” Synagogue, along with significant sites like the Simon Attia Synagogue, Bayt Eddakira (House of Memory), and centers such as Haim Zaffrani and Abraham Zagory Studies, is part of a broader vision led by King Mohammed VI.
This initiative ensures the restoration of Jewish heritage, reaffirming Morocco’s role in safeguarding cultural memory.
The Kingdom’s efforts are not limited to Essaouira. Nationally, Morocco has taken major strides to restore over 167 Jewish cemeteries and historical sites since 2015, reflecting a dedication to coexistence. In cities such as Casablanca, the Moroccan Jewish Museum—the first of its kind in the Arab world—underscores this heritage.
This effort is complemented by Morocco’s focus on promoting a tolerant Islamic identity based on Maliki and Ash’arite doctrines while simultaneously encouraging interfaith dialogue and harmony.
Essaouira’s cultural depth was highlighted by André Azoulay, founding president of the Essaouira Mogador Association and advisor to King Mohammed VI, who emphasizes the city’s embodiment of universal values.
Drawing on Morocco’s multi-millennial legacy, Essaouira remains a tangible testament to cultural diversity and shared human values. The city has welcomed civilizations ranging from Phoenicians, Amazigh people, and Romans to Jews and Muslim Arabs, leaving behind a vibrant cultural mosaic.
According to Abdullah Ouzitane, Professor at the University of Bordeaux, Essaouira’s 2,500-year-old heritage continues to shine as a space for “universal expression,” where Islam and Judaism coexist seamlessly.
The professor noted that events like Hiloula, celebrated by Moroccan Jews worldwide, highlight the enduring bonds with their Moroccan roots. Morocco is home to over 650 Jewish shrines, particularly in cities like Essaouira, Safi, Tetouan, and Tangier, reinforcing the country’s status as the “land of the righteous.”
In his work “Morocco, the Land of the Righteous”, writer Elie Azoulay sheds light on the deep reverence for Morocco’s 656 “tzadikim” (righteous men), revered by both Jews and Muslims. These shrines serve as powerful reminders of Morocco’s exceptional openness and shared spiritual identity, drawing over one million Jews annually who celebrate their Moroccan heritage and pass down this pride to future generations.
Essaouira, with its ancient walls and rich collective memory, exemplifies a model of cross-cultural fertilization. Stories like Rabbi Salamon Knafo leading morning prayers alongside the Muslim call to prayer resonate as symbols of peace and harmony that transcend faiths.