By Emmanuel Nduka
The Kahal Synagogue, tucked away in a narrow alley of the coastal town of Asilah, has been meticulously restored, breathing new life into a piece of Morocco’s rich Jewish heritage.
The centuries-old building of deep historical and spiritual significance, after decades of neglect, now stands recognized as a piece of Africa’s rich heritage.
Originally built in 1824, the Kahal Synagogue is a testament to the enduring presence of the Moroccan Jewish community, which traces its roots back to Roman times.
For years, the synagogue had fallen into disrepair, but its recent restoration was spearheaded by Aaron Abikzer, vice-president of the Tangier Jewish Community, and local residents who shared a commitment to reviving the synagogue’s historic splendor.
Upon Abikzer’s arrival in Asilah, he found the synagogue in a state of ruin. Undeterred, he worked closely with the community, using old drawings to guide the restoration of the building. Every element, from the wooden pews to the walls, was carefully reconstructed to reflect its original design.
The centerpiece of the synagogue, the teba — a wooden pulpit from which the Torah is read — was restored to its authentic form, bringing the spiritual heart of the synagogue back to life.
Inside the synagogue, visitors are greeted by carefully preserved religious artifacts, photos, and marriage certificates that testify to the longstanding presence of Jewish families in the city. Traditional wooden ceilings and vintage lighting fill the space with a warm, inviting glow, offering a sense of history that resonates deeply with visitors.
Sonia Cohen Toledano, responsible for preserving the cultural heritage of the Tangier Jewish Community, played a significant role in filling the synagogue with objects from other closed synagogues across the country. She contributed religious items and even old carpets that once belonged to Jewish families, ensuring the authenticity of the synagogue’s revival.
One of the most important aspects of the synagogue’s restoration is the mikveh, a ritual bath used for spiritual purification. The mikveh, located on the lower floor, includes two water basins and an ancient oven used to heat the water. The upper floor features two bathrooms designed with a concave ceiling, meant to retain heat and steam.
The wooden door of the mikveh is a perfect example of Jewish artistic craftsmanship, adding further authenticity to the space.
Next to the synagogue lies the Asilah Jewish cemetery, where the graves of Jewish families who have lived in the area for generations are located. The cemetery, with its serene view of the sea, has become a popular site for tourists and those interested in learning about Morocco’s Jewish heritage.
In February 2025, the synagogue, the mikveh, and the Jewish cemetery were officially recognized as Moroccan heritage sites. This recognition came after years of advocacy by the Jewish community in Asilah. Abikzer expressed his joy at the announcement, saying, “We asked for these places to become state monuments, and after two years, we received the news that the Minister of Culture has registered these three sites as state heritage. I’m very happy.”
In the 1950s, Morocco was home to around 300,000 Jews, but today, the Jewish population has dwindled to an estimated 5,000. The restoration and preservation of sites like the Kahal Synagogue are crucial in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Morocco’s Jewish community for future generations.
This renewed synagogue, along with the mikveh and cemetery, offers a glimpse into the once-thriving Jewish community of Asilah, ensuring that their history is not forgotten but celebrated for years to come.
