Morocco-Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen, or Chaouen, is noted for its buildings in shades of blue. Founded in 1471 Chefchaouen served as fortress for exiles from Spain. Over the centuries, the city grew and welcomed Jews. Chefchaouen's blue buildings have more religious than stylistic reasons. Jewish teachers suggest that by dyeing thread with tekhelel (an ancient natural dye) and weaving it into prayer shawls, people would be reminded of God’s power.

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Filename: em4010553.jpg
Copyright: @enricomartino
Image Size: 4256x2832 / 7.8MB; africa architecture blue chefchaouen jewish rif
Contained in galleries: Morocco-Chefchaouen, the fluorescent medina

Chefchaouen, or Chaouen, is noted for its buildings in shades of blue. Founded in 1471 Chefchaouen served as fortress for exiles from Spain. Over the centuries, the city grew and welcomed Jews. Chefchaouen's blue buildings have more religious than stylistic reasons. Jewish teachers suggest that by dyeing thread with tekhelel (an ancient natural dye) and weaving it into prayer shawls, people would be reminded of God’s power.