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The medina of Essaouira, a jewel on the Moroccan coast, enchants visitors with its authentic charm and vibrant atmosphere. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this old town blends Berber, Arab and European influences. Its picturesque streets, imposing ramparts and lively souks bear witness to a rich commercial and cultural history. The cradle of Gnawa music and traditional crafts, Essaouira embodies the soul of Morocco, captivating parents and children alike.
Essaouira was founded in 1764 by the Sultan of Morocco, Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah and designed by French architect Théodore Cornut. Destined to become a major trading port on the Atlantic coast, the 18th-century city has sturdy ramparts and an orthogonal street layout that contrasts with traditional labyrinthine medinas. Essaouira was once named Mogador, from the Phoenician word 'migdol,' which means a 'small fortress.'
Essaouira's heritage is characterised by its varied cultural influences. Essaouira's ramparts, monumental gates, fortifications and port bear witness to its strategic and commercial importance. In 2001, the medina of Essaouira was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its unparalleled value. Today, Essaouira attracts visitors from all over the world with its timeless charm and rich heritage, appealing to young and old alike.
Essaouira's medina is packed with unmissable sites. Lined with ancient canons, the 18th-century fortification Skala de la Kasbah is an exceptional example of how Essaouira prevented attacks from the sea. It offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town (fun fact: Game of Thrones was filmed here.) The picturesque port, with its traditional blue boats and fresh fish auctions, is another gem.
The lively souks of the medina are a labyrinth of narrow streets where fragrant spices, brightly coloured fabrics and local crafts mingle. The Souk Jdid and the Souk Haddadine are two of the most emblematic markets. The medina is also home to numerous art galleries, reflecting the creative spirit of Essaouira. Every street corner reveals a new treasure, making Essaouira's medina captivating and memorable.
Essaouira's medina offers a wide range of cultural and artistic activities. Art galleries exhibit a variety of works, from contemporary paintings to traditional Moroccan art. The craft workshops give visitors a chance to discover artisans' ancestral savoir-faire, from thuya wood marquetry to silver jewellery and pottery.
Essaouira is also famous for its music festivals, notably the Gnaoua and World Music Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Other events, such as the Printemps Musical des Alizés, put the spotlight on classical and jazz music, confirming Essaouira's role as a leading, dynamic cultural centre in Morocco.
Essaouira's medina is a paradise for food lovers. On the fishing port, restaurants such as Le Chalet de la Plage and Chez Sam are renowned for their fresh seafood. The medina is also full of cafés and small establishments serving Moroccan specialities, such as La Table by Madada and Le Sirocco, which serves a fusion of Moroccan and Mediterranean flavours. Local patisseries, such as Pâtisserie Driss, sell traditional sweets such as gazelle horns, accompanied by mint tea.
Shopping in Essaouira's medina is an adventure in itself. The picturesque alleyways are home to craft treasures such as jewellery, fabrics, cedar woodwork, pottery and leather goods. The shops near Place Moulay Hassan are a must for silver jewellery, while the Souk Jdid brims with colourful fabrics and Berber carpets.
To discover these treasures, simply get lost in the lively alleyways of the medina. Here, every corner reveals new artisanal wonders that reflect the soul and heritage of this old 18th-century city.
Villanovo offers a vast selection of riads and villas in Essaouira with a private pool, next to a golf course, close to Essaouira Beach and more. Let yourself be seduced by our exceptional riads and villas in the medina, on the outskirts of Essaouira, or at the Mogador Golf Club for an unforgettable holiday with your family.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can concentrate on your holiday in Essaouira. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs: booking excursions, water sports, a private chef and more. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Essaouira.
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