Do you guys remember Astapor? the southern city of Slaver’s Bay? Doesn’t ring a bell? well, where Daenerys Targaryen meets the unsullied?…There you go 😀 Thaaaat’s Essaouira…
Ok sure, you are not a big fan of Game of Thrones and you sucked in geography class… I got you.
You see that tiny little red pin on the coast of the Atlantic ocean? That’s where it is : Less than 3 hours drive from Marrakesh and a bit more than 4 hours drive from Casablanca.
A lot of visitors don’t pay attention to this cultural city tough she has a whole LOT to offer…A word of truth from a native Moroccan For this reason, this article will open your eyes to why Essaouira should be on your list once in Morocco.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Not a monument or two but the whole city of Essaouira is a UNIESCO world heritage under the name of Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)
A major port city in Morocco
The seaport dates back to the late 18th century. It was a major international trading hub connecting Morocco with Europe and the rest of the world. It was the main port for the country at some point.
Essaouira citadel by Scala harbor is a mix of European and Arabic architecture and is definitely worth a visit. Especially if I tell you that Kaleesi was once there…my good selling point 😀
Home to a large community of Jews
Essaouira is the only Arab city where most of the residents were once Jewish. It has been a symbol of tolerance between Jews and Muslims coexisting in peace. There are dozens of synagogues to date and cemeteries that testify a deeply rooted presence of Jews in the city.
Gnaoua World Music Festival
Essaouira is famous for its Gnaoua World Music Festival. A platform for foreign artists and Gnaoua musicians and dancers. The festival takes place around June/July, so if you happen to be in Morocco, don’t miss this huge music gathering.
A city for hippies of the world
Essaouira is known for its hippie movement since late 60’s. A lot of hippies from Europe and North America choose Essaouira as their home. Maybe a comfort found in the Cannabis production and local use? 😀
Oh and did I forget to say that rock stars Jimmy Hendrix and Cat Stevens called Essaouira home.
With that being said my advice to you is: When in Morocco, do as Moroccans do “Visit Essaouira” and I am sure you’ll have a good time.