Dar Soltane, Medieval citadel in Safi, Morocco
Dar Soltane is a stone citadel sitting on a hilltop with four observation towers that overlook the Atlantic coast and the city of Safi. The fortress spans multiple levels with thick defensive walls, where exhibition spaces now display important collections.
The citadel was built by the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century and later served as a Portuguese garrison from 1508 to 1541. King Manuel's coat of arms remains visible today, marking the long period of European control over this strategic coastal position.
The site now houses a national museum dedicated to Moroccan ceramics, where you can see pottery traditions and craftsmanship from different time periods. Walking through the galleries, you get a sense of how important ceramic production has been to the region for centuries.
The site is open daily and you can explore the towers, walls, and exhibition spaces while enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean. The pathways between different areas are easily walkable, and the viewpoints work well for a extended visit.
Dutch and Spanish cannons still stand at the entrance with inscriptions in Arabic and Dutch from the Saadian period. These military remnants tell the story of the different powers that shaped this location over centuries.
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