MOROCCO – A LAND WHERE JEWS AND ARABS LIVE IN HARMONY

Morocco is a country in North Africa, part of the African Union and the Arab League. Approximately 98% of the Moroccan population follows Islam, while nearly 1% of the population practices Judaism. Despite the common perception of tension between Jews and Muslims in many Middle Eastern and North African regions, this is not the case in Morocco.

The country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between the two religions, which is reflected in the ongoing efforts of the kingdom to strengthen this harmonious tradition. The 2011 constitution recognizes that Morocco’s identity is “nurtured and enriched” in part by its “Hebraic” components. Additionally, King Mohammed VI has initiated a significant restoration project, demonstrating special care for the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Jewish community in Morocco.

Chefchaouen, the beautiful and blue city of the Jews, is a unique destination. Despite being only 400 years old, Chefchaouen has made a distinct mark with its delightful blue charm. In the 15th century, when Jews were expelled from Spain, Chefchaouen became their place of refuge. They painted vibrant cobalt blue on all their sacred sites.

This blue color, in their religion, symbolizes the heavens, representing the power of God and derived from the dyed threads of tekhelel used to weave prayer shawls. Therefore, these walls carry a message of a powerful deity and a close relationship with paradise.

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