Do you know that Essaouira, with a density of 866 inhabitants per square kilometer, is a very special coastal city? Known as > in the past, this city has ancient ramparts and a medina recognized by UNESCO. It has around 78,000 inhabitants.
Essaouira stands out with a unique blend of European architecture and Arab-Berber aesthetics. It is the capital of its province, known by the same name.
It is located between Agadir and Marrakech and offers an unforgettable experience, especially for beach enthusiasts. Here, the beaches of Essaouira are waiting to be explored, a dream location for the “essaouira beach” activity.
Essaouira is famous as the > because of the trade winds. It is a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers. The constant winds make it an ideal location for these sports.
A brief history of Essaouira
Essaouira, also known as Mogador , has a beautiful history. Since ancient times, the Phoenicians and Getulians visited this important place. Its development began in the 16th century when the Portuguese built the Castelo Real fortress.
In the 18th century, Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah modernized Essaouira. He commissioned European architects, including Théodore Cornut, to work on the city. With European design principles, the city quickly transformed into a major center of commerce and the diplomatic capital of Morocco.
Essaouira is now recognized by UNESCO, especially for its medina. This recognition helps preserve its rich past. Today, people are still drawn to its artistic and multicultural ambiance.
The Medina of Essaouira: a world heritage
Since 2001, the medina of Essaouira has been a UNESCO world heritage site . It is a unique 18th century fortified town. It combines European architecture with North Africa in an exceptional way.
In the 18th century, Sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah created Essaouira. He designed an urban plan promoting cultural diversity. The medina is a place where different ethnic groups and religions, such as Islam, Christianity and Judaism, coexist.
The architecture of the medina shows a mixture of African, Portuguese and Moroccan styles. Its imposing ramparts, inspired by the style of Vauban, are still intact. This is due to serious conservation efforts and management plans.
Since its creation, Essaouira has been an important international trade port. This has made the city a bridge between Morocco and the world, particularly Europe. Its commercial role remains crucial today.
The medina of Essaouira is much more than just a place, it is a living cultural treasure. Locals, through legislative actions and awareness, are protecting its legacy for all.
Dream beaches in Essaouira
The beaches of Essaouira are on the Atlantic coast. They offer various landscapes and activities. Locals and visitors love them very much.
The golden sands and constant winds are perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Essaouira beach
Essaouira beach is a real gem. It has beautiful views of the Purpuraires Islands. It’s a perfect place for sports enthusiasts and those who just want to relax.
You can easily get there. It is also close to the medina and the port, which makes it even more attractive.
Diabat and surrounding beaches
Diabat beach is a few kilometers away, near the ruins of Borj el Baroud, and the Mogador golf course. For surfers, Sidi Kaouki beach has big waves, perfect for surfing.
From there, one can find other beautiful beaches like Tafedna, ideal for kitesurfing and fishing.
Quieter destinations
If you want to avoid the crowds, Iftane beach is perfect. It is 40 km from Essaouira, between sea and mountains. You can go there by car or on foot.
Wild beaches like those at Cap des Trois Fourches are great for calm. They are far from the usual tourist places.
These popular beaches attract tourists from all over. They seek both calm and adventure. For a change a little, Agadir and its beaches also offer beautiful beaches with varied activities.
Festivals and cultural events
Essaouira is always lively thanks to its cultural events . The Gnaoua and World Music festival is very special. It takes place from June 3 to 24. Every year, more than 300,000 people from all over the world come. They joyfully celebrate Afro-Maghrebi music and its culture.
The city has more to offer in its calendar. In April, it’s the Musical Spring of the Alizés which charms. In March, the Andalousies Atlantiques Festival highlights Andalusian culture. And, the Moussem des Regraga invites pilgrims and tourists from March to April. They come to celebrate and discover the traditions of the brotherhood.
Essaouira also offers the Moga Festival (September 28 – October 2), Jazz sous l’Arganier in December, and the Young Talents Festival in August. In addition, the exhibition of the painter Majid Moujellil is held from July to December. It is a window on current local art.
These cultural events make Essaouira a unique cultural place. They mix history and modernity, tradition and innovation. All in a warm and welcoming spirit.
Conclusion
Essaouira is a unique place that combines a rich past and exceptional natural beauty. Built at the end of the 18th century, this city is a jewel of architecture from that era. It is surrounded by ramparts designed by Vauban.
It developed around a central castle, becoming an important international trading port. This helped connect Morocco to Europe and the rest of the world.
Between 1757 and 1790, the city was a crossroads for trade between Africa and Europe. Today, it is a symbol of peaceful cohabitation between different ethnic and religious groups.
Essaouira has managed to preserve its architecture , its original materials and construction techniques. This shows its true authenticity dating back to the 18th century.
Essaouira’s old town, the medina, is architecturally unchanged. It is the subject of continuous care to preserve its cultural heritage . Thus, it remains a lively place, recognized as the best tourist destination in Morocco at the Morocco Tourism Awards 2023.
The city saw an 87% increase in air traffic in one year. This is a testament to its growing popularity and improved accessibility. These successes portend a bright future for Essaouira, where sustainable and varied tourism promises memorable experiences.
