Judaism and Essaouira history

Essaouira has a rich and varied history, which includes a large Jewish community that has played an important role in the city's history. In the 18th century, Essaouira was founded by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, who invited Jewish merchants and artisans to settle in the city to help its economic development. Essaouira's Jewish community flourished, with many Jews working in maritime trade, textiles, jewelry and crafts.

During the French colonial period, Essaouira's Jewish community continued to play an important role in the city's economy and culture. However, after Morocco's independence in 1956 and the creation of the State of Israel in 1948, many Jews emigrated to Israel and other countries, greatly reducing Essaouira's Jewish population.

Today, few Jews remain in Essaouira, but the city still retains many historical and cultural sites related to the Jewish community. Visitors can discover the Slat Lkahal synagogue, the home of the famous Rabbi Chaim Pinto, the Bayt Dakira Jewish museum, the Simon Attias synagogue and the Jewish cemetery of Essaouira, all of which bear witness to the city's rich Jewish history and culture.