Medina of Essaouira, UNESCO World Heritage medina near the Atlantic coast in Essaouira, Morocco.
The Medina of Essaouira is a fortified quarter on the Atlantic coast with white buildings, blue shops and houses arranged in a precise grid pattern. The district contains traditional markets, artisan workshops, residential houses in traditional style, harbors, and coastal sections with historic fortifications.
In the 18th century, a Moroccan sultan built this fortified quarter to strengthen trade relations with Europe. The European urban planning and fortified walls show the influence of that era.
The quarter shows traces of its Jewish past through narrow streets and the Bayt Dakira museum, where old objects recall the time when Jewish families lived here. Visitors can still see the synagogue and traditional shops that preserve this history.
Visitors can explore the fortified walls, traditional markets, and artisan workshops on foot while walking through the network of narrow streets. It is best to wear comfortable shoes and come early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the fresh air.
The harbor side of the quarter is known for rows of bright blue fishing boats and seafood restaurants serving fresh catches from the Atlantic. These boats have been a symbol of local fishing for generations and a striking feature of the coastal quarter.
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