Bab el-Marsa

Bab el-Marsa is a fortified gateway between the medina walls and the harbor of Essaouira, constructed entirely from carved stone with a triangular pediment at its crown. The structure features two fluted columns and capitals that create a clearly defined passageway.

This gateway was built between 1769 and 1770 under architect Ahmed El Inglizi on orders from Sultan Mohammed Ben Abdellah. Its construction marked a period when coastal Moroccan cities were adapting to changing maritime influences.

The gate blends two building traditions through its fluted columns and European-influenced design alongside local stone carving methods. Today, visitors can see how this entrance represents the meeting point between European and Moroccan craftsmanship in a single structure.

This gateway connects the Kasbah district to the port area and remains open throughout the day for visitors and residents to pass through. It serves as a natural waypoint when exploring both neighborhoods on foot.

An inscription carved into the center of the pediment records the construction date and the Sultan's original commission. This carved record preserves the specific moment and authority behind the structure's creation.

Location: Essaouira

Inception: 1764

Architects: Ahmed el Inglizi

Address: Essaouira, Morocco

Opening Hours: Monday 09:00-17:00; Tuesday-Thursday 09:00-21:00; Friday 09:00-22:00; Saturday-Sunday 08:00-23:00

Phone: +212630833123

GPS coordinates: 31.51002,-9.77357

Latest update: December 7, 2025 12:07