Kasbah of Chefchaouen

Kasbah de Chefchaouen is a fortified compound at the heart of Chefchaouen's old quarter in Morocco. Several buildings surround a central courtyard and connect through arched passages, while thick mud walls, angular towers and tiled roofs shape the overall structure.

Moulay Ali Ben Rachid ordered its construction in 1471 to guard the town against Portuguese raids and shelter refugees from Andalusia. For centuries, local leaders made it their residence.

Inside the compound, a museum shows pottery, weapons, musical instruments and textiles from different regions of the country. Traditional household objects stand next to pieces made by local artisans.

The compound lies in the center of the old quarter and can be reached on foot from most lodgings. Mornings are generally quieter than late afternoons.

The main tower rises through three floors to a covered terrace at the top. From there you look down over the blue lanes of the old town and the surrounding hills.