Essaouira

Overview

Essaouira is a port city and resort on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Its Medina-the old town-is protected by 18th-century seafront ramparts called the Skala de la Kasbah, designed by European engineers. Brass cannons line the walls, and there are ocean views. Strong “Alizée” trade winds make the city’s crescent beach popular for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

Sights

Map

Info

Essaouira is a picturesque port city and resort town located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, rich history, and unique blend of cultures, Essaouira has become a popular destination for both tourists and artists. Here’s detailed information about Essaouira:

1. Historical Significance:

  • Founded in the 18th century by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, Essaouira was designed as a fortified city to be an important Atlantic port. It was influenced by European, Berber, and Arab cultures, resulting in a unique architectural style.
  • Before the city was formally established, the area was inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans, and Portuguese. The Portuguese briefly controlled the region, naming it “Mogador,” a name still used informally today.
  • Its strategic location made it a key trading hub, particularly for goods such as spices, textiles, and slaves, connecting Morocco to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

2. Medina of Essaouira:

  • The medina (old town) of Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved 18th-century architecture, including whitewashed houses with blue shutters, ramparts, and winding streets.
  • The medina is notable for its unique grid layout, which was uncommon for Moroccan medinas at the time. This European-inspired design was introduced by French architect Théodore Cornut under Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah’s orders.
  • The souks in the medina offer a range of traditional goods, including spices, leather products, jewelry, and handicrafts. It’s also known for its workshops where local artisans craft intricate wooden products made from thuya wood, a prized material from the region.

3. Skala de la Kasbah:

  • Skala de la Kasbah is the fortified seafront rampart that stretches along the city’s coast, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The ramparts were originally built to protect the city from potential invasions.
  • Along the ramparts, visitors can see old bronze cannons facing the sea, remnants of Essaouira’s defensive past.
  • The Skala was used as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones, adding to its fame.

4. Port of Essaouira:

  • The fishing port of Essaouira remains a central part of the city’s economy and daily life. The port is a lively place where you can see traditional blue fishing boats, bustling fish markets, and fishermen bringing in their daily catch.
  • Fresh seafood is a major highlight of Essaouira, with many local restaurants offering fish and seafood dishes straight from the port.
  • The port is also home to the Skala du Port, a defensive structure that provides panoramic views of the port and the nearby Îles Purpuraires, small islands just off the coast that were historically important for the production of purple dye by the Phoenicians.

5. Beaches and Surfing:

  • Essaouira’s long, sandy beach is one of its biggest attractions. It’s known for its consistent winds, making it a hotspot for wind sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. The strong Atlantic winds have earned Essaouira the nickname “The Windy City of Africa.”
  • While the winds make swimming less ideal for some, the beach is perfect for long walks, horseback riding, or camel rides along the shore.
  • The windsurfing and kitesurfing scene in Essaouira attracts enthusiasts from around the world, and the city hosts the Essaouira Gnaoua World Music Festival, which often includes windsurfing competitions.

6. Cultural Significance:

  • Essaouira is a hub for artists, musicians, and writers, attracting creatives with its laid-back charm, unique architecture, and bohemian vibe. The city has long been a favorite of notable figures like Jimi Hendrix and Orson Welles, who was drawn to Essaouira for its beauty and mystique.
  • The city has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by Berber, Arab, Jewish, and European cultures, making it a melting pot of traditions and customs.

7. Gnaoua World Music Festival:

  • One of Essaouira’s most famous events is the Gnaoua World Music Festival, held annually. This festival celebrates Gnaoua music, a traditional Moroccan genre rooted in the spiritual and healing music of sub-Saharan African slaves who were brought to Morocco.
  • The festival attracts musicians from around the world, blending Gnaoua music with jazz, reggae, and other genres. It’s one of the most important cultural events in Morocco, drawing large crowds to Essaouira’s streets and squares.

8. Jewish Heritage:

  • Essaouira was once home to a significant Jewish population, and the city was known for its harmonious coexistence of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities. The Jewish quarter, known as the Mellah, is still a part of the city, and some synagogues have been preserved.
  • Essaouira’s Jewish heritage is evident in the city’s architecture, cemeteries, and cultural influence. The Haim Pinto Synagogue, named after a famous rabbi, is an important site of pilgrimage for Jews from Morocco and around the world.

9. Art and Handicrafts:

  • Essaouira is renowned for its vibrant art scene. The city is filled with art galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. The bohemian atmosphere attracts painters, sculptors, and photographers, making it a creative hub.
  • Woodworking is a traditional craft in Essaouira. Local artisans use thuya wood, a native tree of the region, to create beautiful inlaid wooden furniture, boxes, and decorative items. Visitors can watch artisans at work in the medina’s workshops.

10. Modern Essaouira:

  • While Essaouira has retained much of its historic charm, it also has a modern side, particularly in its growing tourism sector. The city has a range of accommodation options, from boutique riads in the medina to luxury hotels along the coast.
  • Essaouira’s tourism is focused on sustainability, with efforts to preserve the city’s cultural and environmental heritage. The calm, relaxed vibe of the city appeals to travelers looking for a slower pace compared to the more bustling Moroccan cities like Marrakesh.

11. Cuisine:

  • Essaouira is known for its seafood, thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Popular dishes include grilled sardines, sea bass, and lobster, often served with Moroccan spices and local ingredients.
  • In addition to seafood, traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and harira are commonly found in local restaurants.
  • The city also has a thriving cafe culture, with many cafes and restaurants offering ocean views and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

12. Transportation and Accessibility:

  • Essaouira is served by Essaouira-Mogador Airport, which connects the city to several international destinations. It’s also easily accessible by road, being about a 2-hour drive from Marrakesh.
  • Buses and taxis are common forms of transportation within the city, while the medina is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets.
  • Essaouira’s port remains an active fishing harbor, and visitors can take boat trips to explore the nearby Îles Purpuraires, known for their birdlife and historical significance.

Essaouira offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through the vibrant medina, enjoying fresh seafood by the port, or experiencing the energy of the Gnaoua Festival, Essaouira is a charming destination with something for everyone. Its relaxed atmosphere and stunning coastal views make it one of Morocco’s most enchanting cities.

Previous Marrakesh