The Jewish Quarter of Marrakech

The Jewish quarter of Marrakech is called the Mellah. It’s an area of the city enclosed by high walls and marked by an architectural style that’s completely different from the rest of Marrakech.

The Jewish quarter was built during the Saadian dynasty to allow Jews to live in the city, although isolated from the rest of the population. In fact, the Mellah of Marrakech was once a real city within the city, enclosed by high walls.

I passed through the Jewish quarter of Marrakech intending only to visit the cemetery. I thought I’d see the place and head straight back to the city’s bustling bazaars.

Instead, the Jewish quarter draws you in with its charm. I got lost among the red clay walls, followed by curious cats.

I discovered hidden corners away from the noise, little squares where barefoot children play, whitewashed houses with crumbling balconies, and the warm smiles of ordinary people.

Come explore this neighborhood and wander aimlessly if you want to see how the locals truly live — all while staying just steps from Marrakech’s famous attractions.

The Jewish quarter of Marrakech is a small gem within this city. The atmosphere is pleasant and relaxed.

In the past, the quarter was enclosed by tall walls and entry gates. Inside and around this neighborhood, you’ll find some of the city’s most beautiful buildings. The streets are narrow, and the colors are warm — it’s postcard-perfect.

Place des Ferblantiers

One of the two main entrances to the Jewish quarter is in Place des Ferblantiers, the tinsmiths’ square. From here, you can dive into the narrow alleys of the Mellah — a maze of streets. Here you’ll also find the old synagogue, which has now been converted into a spice shop.

The square is a large rectangle surrounded by palm trees and arcades. It’s a great place to pause and enjoy some refreshments in one of the cafés or rooftop terraces.

The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed — the ideal spot to take a break before exploring the Jewish quarter.

A City Within a City

The Jewish quarter of Marrakech had its own market and various commercial activities. This area was once home to up to 50,000 people. It’s easy to see how it functioned as a city unto itself.

Because of the high population density, a distinct architecture emerged. Unable to expand horizontally, homes were built vertically. For this reason, buildings here are typically taller than in other parts of the city.

The Jewish Cemetery

The main attraction of the Jewish quarter is the Miaara Cemetery. It’s a vast expanse of whitewashed graves gleaming under the sun.

It’s said to be the largest Jewish cemetery in the country. If you’re traveling around Morocco, you may have already come across another Jewish quarter and cemetery — for example, in Chefchaouen.

Discover more: If you enjoyed Marrakech, explore other destinations in Morocco and download the complete Marrakech guide.