© Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha 2023
Discover the magic of Essaouira's medina, formerly known as Mogador - a name that comes from the Phoenician word 'Migdol', symbolising a 'small fortress'. This mid-eighteenth-century architectural gem stands as a masterpiece of a fortified town, encircled by a Vauban-inspired wall.
The ancient city is a living tribute to the union of European architecture and Arab-Muslim town planning rules. This historic oasis has managed to preserve its authentic character by respecting traditional building methods, original design and the use of local materials (such as the local cut stone known as "Manjour").
Despite the temptation to modernise and natural challenges, such as the impact of humidity and sea swells, the town stands proud, preserving the fortifications and urban texture of its original configuration.
Its international reputation is well established, having served for centuries as a commercial gateway between Morocco, Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. While some rehabilitation work has been carried out overt he years to repair and rebuild,
© Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha 2023
the essence of the medina remains true to its origins. Come and immerse yourself in the past and enjoy an unrivalled experience in this ancient city that has stood the test of time magnificently.
With its rich cultural and religious diversity, Essaouira has become a melting pot of diverse ethnicities, from Africans to Europeans, Jews to Arabs. It is a harmonious meeting place for Muslims, Christians and Jews.
More than just a Medina, the Mogador archipelago embodies a treasure trove of natural and cultural sites of outstanding universal value.
The history of Essaouira : a mix of Arabic and European influences
This complex was established by the Alaouite sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah (1757-1790) with the vision of making Essaouira a royal port and an important centre of Moroccan trade.
Discover Essaouira, Morocco's magnificent historic city, built with passion and ingenuity. Since 1764, the Sultan has ordered the creation of this fortified medina and its Royal Port of Assaouira, a jewel on the Atlantic coast. Inspired by the renowned French architecture of the Marquis de Vauban, Théodore Cornut, a talented French military architect, designed this extraordinary city by subtly blending Portuguese Manueline styles, Arab-Muslim Islamic architecture and French military genius.
Imagine a multi-faceted city, with its carefully designed checkerboard quarters, including the kasbah of Essaouira, testimony to our rich history. A majestic Ben Youssef mosque dating from 1773 adds a spiritual touch to the whole. The Moroccan-style Alaouite ramparts protect the city on the landward side, while the coastal ramparts, worthy of Vauban, stretch for more than 200 metres along the Atlantic Ocean.
Imagine exploring the Sqala artillery platforms at the Kasbah and the Port, gazing up at the watchtowers and historic 18th-century bronze cannons that bear witness to a glorious era.
Essaouira played a major strategic role in the history of Morocco in the 18th and 19th centuries. As a vital trading point between the trans-Saharan trade routes
and the international sea lanes,
© Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha 2023
the city was the international commercial seaport of Marrakech, the capital of Morocco at the time.
But its influence extended far beyond, to Timbuktu, the gateway to Black Africa, where trans-Saharan trade flourished, transporting treasures such as gold and spices. Essaouira was the essential link between Morocco, sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and the rest of the world, thanks to its flourishing port with its consular houses, port customs, international trading houses and warehouses.
Although its maritime activity has been replaced over time by the modern ports of Tangier Med, Mohammedia, Casablanca and Agadir, Essaouira remains a must-see destination. Today, this multicultural town of almost 75,000 inhabitants is a
dynamic fishing port
© Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha 2023
and one of Morocco's tourism gems. You'll be dazzled by its well-preserved historic architectural heritage, nestling in a picturesque landscape on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.
Immerse yourself in the bustling markets where spices and fresh fish fill the air. Savour the delights of Moroccan cuisine in our many restaurants offering specialities of fish grilled in olive oil.
📍 where is Essaouira: click here for location
How to Discover the medina of Essaouira and experience the charm and history of one of Morocco's most beautiful jewels?
Our excursion company will come at 8H30 AM to get you and drive your group in a private car to Essaouira and bring you back to Marrakech at around 19H30. Experience a full day-out in one of the most charming little Medinas of Morocco.
© P&E Invest Maroc
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