Once known by its Portuguese name of Mogador, this coastal city stands on a vast bay sweeping south, boasting miles of superb sandy beaches.  Established as a trading post in the 5th century BC, the city later became an important source of “tyrian purple” dye.  This dye, derived from particular snails inhabiting the waters of Essaouira Bay, was once a highly prized luxury used in Imperial Rome.  Throughout history the city has been influenced by the Spanish, English, Dutch and French who all tried to occupy the area, but failed. As a result of these various occupations, a diverse culture has formed within the city’s white washed medina. To add to its appeal, this port city’s fortified harbour is a hive of activity with fishing nets laid out on the quayside, boats unloading their catches, fish auctions and stalls serving seafood sizzling on the grills.

See:

• Medina – UNESCO World Heritage listed, this site is a fine example of 18th century architecture
• Woodwork – Local craftsmen are renowned for their lacquer ware, cabinet making and woodturning skills

Experience:

• Festival Gnaoua – This World Music festival is growing in popularity, and is held annually in June.  The Gnaoua (also Gnawa) are descendents of the sub-Saharan African people brought to the area for the slave trade.
• Beaches – The Atlantic coastline has numerous beaches that are cleaner and less crowded than near the larger cities such as Casablanca and Rabat
• Windsurfing – The bay is particularly good for windsurfing, as the water remains calm while there is a constant breeze.

Secrets of the City:

• Castles in the Sand – It is believed that Jimi Hendrix’s song Castles in the Sand was written in, and based on Essaouira.