Rihaniya

This Circassian village, 8 km north of Safed,  is the twin of the only other Circassian village in Israel: Kafr Kama. The residents of Rihaniya are mostly Circassian.  The village was established in 1873 by refugee survivors from the Circassian Holocaust, at the hands of the Russian Empire. The Circassians were invited by the Ottoman Empire to settle sparsely populated areas. As soon as you enter either of the Circassian villages it is obvious that you have arrived to a unique surroundings. The architecture is unlike other Arab or Moslim villages in Israel.  The have brought the best atrtibutes of the Caucasian culture. They serve in the IDF as well. It is worthwhile to visit them.

 Circassian Heritage Center, Rihaniya

Guided tour explaining the Circassian language, tradition, religion and dress. Your guide wears traditional Circassian clothing and has a good sense of humor. Continue to the folklore exhibition and view the interesting video.

In addition to the Circassian Museum, at the Circassian Experience in Rihaniya you will find a fine Circassian Restaurant (non-Kosher), Circassian music and a Circassian Dance Group. Group arrangements can be made for “A Circassian Evening”. For reservations:

• Tel:04-6980349, 04-6987940, 050-5203146
• E-mail: shapso@yahoo.com