El Ghriba Synagogue
One of the oldest synagogues in the world, on a site used for two and a half thousand years.
Duration
45 min – 1 hr 15 min
Best time
In the morning
Open
Closed Saturday
Entry price
To confirm
The Ghriba is one of the oldest synagogues in the world still in use. Tradition dates the site to 586 BC: priests fleeing the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem are said to have brought a stone and a door, built into the structure.
The present building is nineteenth century. Djerba's Jewish community is one of the last in the Arab world to have survived unbroken, and the annual Lag BaOmer pilgrimage draws worshippers from Europe and Israel. The site is under permanent military protection after several attacks.
Getting there
In Erriadh village, seven kilometres south of Houmt Souk. Taxi or car.
What the price covers
a small entry fee or donation, rate to be confirmed
What to bring
- Covering clothes
- Swimsuit
Rules on site
There is a security check at the entrance with identity documents, and the site closes on Saturday and on Jewish holidays. Men must cover their heads, and a covering is provided; shoulders covered for everyone.