Church of the Immaculate Conception, Roman Catholic cathedral in central Tangier, Morocco
The Church of the Immaculate Conception is a modern Catholic place of worship located on Rue Es-Siaghine, distinguished by a clock tower crowned with a distinctive cupola. Its interior was divided into two levels through renovation work and has been managed by the Missionaries of Charity since 1996.
The building was constructed in 1880 with funding from the Spanish government, making it the first Catholic place of worship established in Tangier. The project was initiated by Father José María Lerchundi, whose remains are preserved in the underground crypt beneath the structure.
The church serves as a religious center for the small Catholic community in Tangier and reflects Spanish ecclesiastical influence in the city. Visitors can experience a piece of European worship traditions within Morocco's cultural landscape.
The site is centrally located in Tangier and easily accessible on foot, with the clock tower serving as a helpful landmark for navigation. Since the building operates as an active place of worship, visitors should be respectful during services and can explore most freely outside of prayer times.
An underground crypt beneath the building serves as the final resting place of Father Lerchundi, the church's founder, a detail many visitors overlook. This hidden chamber creates a quiet historical space within the modern structure above.
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