Essaouira, Morocco » general info

Mystic Orient

"Here it is, the paradise that was once my home: sea and mountains. Some of this remains with one throughout life, even before science, civilisation and consciousness. And perhaps I will return there to die in peace."
Driss Chraibi, one of the best-known writers of northern Africa wrote this sentence when speaking of his native country, Morocco...

Essaouira is a coastal city with beaches as far as the eye can see and counts among the "model destinations" for windsurfers, kitesurfers and surfers worldwide. The architecture of the old town is strongly influenced by Portuguese military and French and Berber culture. The impressive appearance of the city wall gives the city a mystic sublimity, whereas the center of Essaouira is blooming with light and magic: narrow alleys, white chalked houses, blue doors, peaceful squares, cosy cafés, stalls and workshops out of which the characteristic smell of Thuja wood escapes. The lively harbour, directly southeast of the Medina, is also full of impressions: the fishing nets are spread on the pier, the boats unload their catches, craftsmen build traditional wooden boats and roast seafood on grills. In Essaouira the atmosphere is truly unique and easygoing.