A remarkably preserved example of Moroccan style architecture.

On the Quai de Strasbourg, facing the Le Doubs River and the old city center, sits a most curious building. Although it looks as though it might be a Moroccan fortress, it is the Synagogue of Besanςon, formally named Synagogue and Centre Communautaire Jerome Cahen.

In the 14th century, after the expulsion of Jews from the Kingdom of France, a Jewish community formed in the Free Imperial City of Besanςon. After a short period the Jews were once again forced to leave and did not return until shortly after the French Revolution. An imperial decree of 22 May 1867 authorized the Jewish Community to acquire land on the Quai de Strasbourg and build a synagogue. The local architect, Pierre Marnotte, was selected to design a building in the fashionable orientalist style. Construction began in 1869. In 1984 the building was designated a Historic Monument of France.