Welcome to your guide to Essaouira, Morocco
Ever since its foundation in the 8th century BC, Essaouira has been a cosmopolitan town; able to integrate, protect and transcend the different cultures that have occupied the port in slow succession. From the Phoenicians who sought the protection of the natural harbour to Sixties rockers, every visitor to the town of Essaouira has contributed to the creation of the distinctive culture of this most endearing town.
Truly a ‘melting pot’, the architectural styles to be seen in Essaouira are a harmonious retracing of the town’s history stretching back to the time when it was called Mogador. With its mild climate, its generous, sunny-tempered inhabitants and the omnipresent Atlantic ocean, Essaouira is a must-see on the itinerary of anyone making a voyage of discovery around Morocco.
Use My-Morocco.com to revisit or discover all the establishments that make up such a large part of the attraction of the town: click on hotels Essaouira, riads Essaouira, restaurants, art galleries, surf shops.
To see in Essaouira
The harbour-wall Sqala, built by an English renegade in 1806 to link the town to the port, has been used for many purposes - to shelter soldiers, to store firearms and to keep water rations.
With its two decorative columns and a classical triangular pediment, the sqala is a very attractive structure. A stroll along the ramparts of this prestigious monument is a pleasant way to spend time in Essaouira, ending with steps leading up to the highest point of the sqala with wonderful views of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the length of the walls of the Sqala.
After passing through the harbour gate and following the walls one reaches the Kasbah Sqala. These defensive casemates have a set of original bronze canons trained on the vastness of the ocean. Beneath these windswept walls, former munitions magazines have been converted into workshops for inlaid woodwork and boutiques selling ornaments and jewellery from different areas of Morocco.
You can also appreciate in Marrakesh this monuments : The Mellah - Directory of Essaouira
Find quickly all the information you need in order to experience the trip to Essaouira of your dreams. In our directory you will find the full details of the main restaurants, riads and hotels in Essaouira.
Sofitel Thalassa Mogador Essaouira