Essaouira and its history with the Jewish community
Essaouira and its history with the Jewish community
Team Alloj - Article Essaouira and its history with the Jewish community updated on 27/04/2024
Essaouira is a charming coastal town on Morocco's Atlantic coast. It lies about 180 kilometers west of Marrakech. This historic city is famous for its unique architecture, relaxed atmosphere and artistic ambience. And a direct flight between the city and Tel Aviv is now available. "Essaouira is a city intimately linked to Judaism, a place where Jews and Muslims live together," explains Gad Tepper, Managing Director of Arkia Airlines.
Essaouira is also well known in the Jewish community for its pilgrimage to the tomb of the holy Rabbi Haïm Pinto. Every year, some 2 000 pilgrims gather to pray, sing, dance, eat and repent.
Haïm Pinto belonged to a family of eminent Agadir rabbis. Like many Jews from Agadir, he went to Essaouira to study at a yeshiva. Despite his young age, Haïm Pinto was already a well-known figure throughout the town. Barely 20 years old, he assumed the responsibility inherited from his father (who had died in an earthquake) and continued to carry it until his death at the age of 96 in 1845.
To make the most of Essaouira, kosher hotels are available. These include Le Domaine de Mogador. Just a few kilometers from the city, the estate offers bungalows, straw huts and even fully-equipped villas with swimming pools. A few steps away, you can also enjoy the beach, a synagogue and children's parks. The kitchens are strictly kosher, and kosher restaurants and grocery stores are also located nearby.
