In Erriadh, the El Ghriba synagogue is one of the oldest Jewish places of worship in Africa and the heart of Djerba's Jewish community, present on the island since antiquity. Tradition says it was founded with a stone from the Temple in Jerusalem. The current building, more recent, is striking for its interior of carved wood and colourful tiles. Every spring, El Ghriba hosts a large pilgrimage for the festival of Lag BaOmer, drawing worshippers from Tunisia and abroad. The rest of the year the synagogue can be visited: wear clothes that cover shoulders and legs, and expect a security check at the entrance. The visit pairs with the Djerbahood murals in the same village, and fits well into our 3-day itinerary.
The El Ghriba synagogue: your questions
When is the El Ghriba pilgrimage?
In spring, for the Jewish festival of Lag BaOmer, 33 days after the start of Passover: so the date changes every year.
What should you wear to visit El Ghriba?
Modest clothing, with shoulders and knees covered. In the prayer hall you may be asked to cover your head or take off your shoes.
By the Restaurant Sultana team.