Iles Purpuraires, Island group near Essaouira, Morocco.
The Iles Purpuraires consist of several small islands situated approximately 400 meters from the Essaouira coast, featuring rocky outcrops and marine ecosystems.
Ancient Romans and Phoenicians utilized these islands as production centers for extracting purple dye from murex shells, which colored the togas of Roman senators.
The Borj el Bermil watchtower on one of the islands represents the architectural and defensive elements that protected maritime trade routes in past centuries.
Local boat operators provide transportation services from Essaouira port to the islands, with tours typically lasting between two and three hours.
The islands contain specific breeding grounds for numerous seabird species and maintain a protected status within the UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Part of: Medina of Essaouira
GPS coordinates: 31.49708,-9.78798
Latest update: March 3, 2025 20:58
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Souk dei gioielli
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