The Jews of Morocco: A discreet community but rich in often overlooked history

In the heart of Casablanca, a vibrant economic metropolis, lies a cultural treasure unique in the Arab world: the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. This symbolic place, nestled in a residential neighborhood, houses much more than objects; it preserves the living memory of the Jews of Morocco. Through black and white photographs from the 1920s, Torah scrolls, and traditional garments, an entire history of coexistence and craftsmanship unfolds. This Jewish community, once strong with 300,000 souls, remains an inseparable component of the national identity, reminding that the Kingdom has always been a crossroads of civilizations.

A millennial heritage rooted in Moroccan identity

The Jewish history in Morocco is not recent. It draws its roots from Antiquity, long before the arrival of Islam, when the first Jews mixed with the autochthonous Amazigh populations. This presence was considerably strengthened at the end of the 15th century with the Reconquista, forcing many Jews from Spain and Portugal to seek refuge in the Maghreb. These successive migratory waves shaped a rich culture, where Hebrew traditions and local customs intertwined.

Royal protection and the community’s unique status

Morocco distinguished itself by the protection granted to its Jewish subjects, notably under the reign of Mohammed V during World War II. Refusing to apply the anti-Semitic laws of the Vichy regime, the Sultan laid a foundational act that still resonates in 2025 in the collective memory. Today, although the resident population is estimated between 3,000 and 5,000 people, mainly in Casablanca, the influence of this demographic lack of knowledge is inversely proportional to its symbolic weight. The 2011 Constitution also engraved in stone the Hebrew contribution as a tributary of national identity, on the same level as the Amazigh or Andalusian heritage.

This institutional recognition fosters a climate where religious coexistence is perceived as a social norm rather than an exception. Synagogues and kosher restaurants are an integral part of the urban landscape, testifying to cultural resilience in the face of history’s hazards. It is in this context that new forms of regional cooperation develop, valuing this shared heritage.

The economic impact and memory tourism

Economically, the enhancement of the Jewish cultural heritage represents a strategic lever. Before recent geopolitical tensions, Morocco welcomed about 200,000 Israeli tourists per year, many of whom were of Moroccan origin, returning to the land of their ancestors. This “roots tourism” stimulates hospitality, crafts, and transport, creating direct employment opportunities. The benefits are not only financial; they strengthen economic partnerships and exchanges of know-how.

An influential diaspora attached to its roots

The Jewish diaspora of Moroccan origin is one of the largest in the world, with nearly a million people residing in Israel. This unwavering bond with Morocco forms a unique bridge for international exchanges. Even though direct flights may have been temporarily suspended due to security contexts, the desire to maintain Morocco-Israel ties remains strong within civil society and business circles.

Here are some key milestones marking this historical trajectory:

Period 📅	Significant Event 📜	Impact on the Community 👥
Antiquity	Arrival of the first Jews	Fusion with the Amazigh populations (Tochavim).
1492	Expulsion from Spain (Reconquista)	Mass arrival of Megorachim, cultural enrichment.
1940s	World War II	Protection by Mohammed V against Vichy laws.
1948 – 1960	Foundation of Israel and Migrations	Mass departure, population drops from 300k to a few thousand.
2011	New Constitution	Official recognition of the Hebrew tributary.
2020 – 2025	Abraham Accords and aftermath	Diplomatic revival and tourism despite recent crises.

These historical milestones illustrate the complexity of diplomatic relations that go beyond politics, touching the intimate and familial.

Between preservation of the past and contemporary challenges

Despite this richness, the current situation is not without challenges. The events of October 2023 revived certain tensions, placing the community in a delicate position, torn between its Moroccan patriotism and community solidarity. While isolated incidents have been reported, the majority of voices, like that of historian Jamal Amiar, recall that Jews are an essential part of society. The preservation of Jewish traditions continues to be ensured by local initiatives, such as the Kulna association, which works to safeguard this memory.

The resilience of living together

The Moroccan model of coexistence remains a subject of study and admiration. Figures from civil society, activists, or ordinary citizens continue to advocate dialogue. Jewish traditions are not only museum relics but live on through festivals, Andalusian music, and gastronomy. The bilateral dynamic relies on this solid human foundation to navigate crises.

The following elements are essential to understand the persistence of this heritage in 2025:

• 🏛️ Places of worship: Active preservation of synagogues and Jewish cemeteries throughout the Kingdom.
• 🍲 Gastronomy: Moroccan Jewish cuisine (Dafina, Moufleta) remains very popular and widely shared.
• 🎶 Music: The Gharnati and Chgouri repertoire is celebrated by mixed Jewish and Muslim orchestras.
• ⚖️ Legal framework: Rabbinical courts still handle certain personal status cases for the community.

In short, understanding the Moroccan market and its society involves grasping these historical nuances. The integration of this diversity is an asset for Morocco’s international influence.

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How many Jews currently live in Morocco?

In 2025, the resident Jewish community is estimated between 3,000 and 5,000 people, the majority living in Casablanca, although the diaspora of Moroccan origin counts nearly one million people abroad.

What is the status of Jews in the Moroccan constitution?

The 2011 Constitution officially recognizes the Hebrew heritage as a constitutive component of Moroccan national identity, thus securing the Kingdom’s cultural diversity.

Are there museums dedicated to this history?

Yes, the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca is the only museum of this type in the Arab world. It exhibits religious objects, garments, and documents tracing the community’s life.

What is the difference between Tochavim and Megorachim?

Tochavim designate the indigenous Jews present in Morocco since Antiquity (often Berber-speaking), while the Megorachim are the Jews expelled from Spain and Portugal in the 15th century (Sephardim).