Borj Bab Marrakech برج مراكش, Military tower in Essaouira, Morocco.
Borj Bab Marrakech is a circular military tower in Essaouira with a substantial structure measuring roughly 35 meters across and containing 11 interior compartments linked by a corridor. The building sits at the southwest corner of the medina and marks the entrance through the monumental Bab Marrakech gate.
The tower was constructed in the 19th century as a defensive fortification and initially stored ammunition and gunpowder. During the French protectorate period, it was converted into stables.
The tower functions today as a cultural space where art shows occupy its interior alcoves and performances happen on the rooftop terrace. Locals and visitors gather here to experience contemporary creative work within the old fortification.
The tower sits directly at the southwest corner of the historic medina and is easy to reach through the Bab Marrakech gate. Visitors should expect narrow stairs and multiple levels when exploring the interior.
The structure received National Heritage designation in 1924 and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001. This recognition highlights its importance as one of the best-preserved examples of Portuguese fortification design on Morocco's coast.
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