Essaouira was known as Mogador until the 1960s and is a port city in the western Moroccan region of Marrakesh-Safi, on the Atlantic coast.
Archaeological research shows that Essaouira has been occupied since prehistoric times.
The bay at Essaouira is partially sheltered by the island of Mogador, making it a peaceful harbor protected against strong marine winds and still has a thriving fishing community in a fleet of picturesque blue boats.
The present city of Essaouira was built during the mid-eighteenth century by the Moroccan King Mohammed III.
One of his objectives was to establish a harbour at the closest possible point to Marrakesh.
French engineer, Théodore Cornut, and several other Moroccan and European architects and technicians built the fortress and city.
Originally called “Souira” (“the small fortress”), the name became “Es-Saouira” (“the beautifully designed”).
In addition to the fishing fleet, there’s a range of architectural delights, including these colourful range of doors.
Plus of course there is a medina.
Full of the usual colourful delights, but it has a far lighter and less claustrophobic feel than then Marrakech one.
We stumbled across this incredible alley way of carpets and rugs!
Any colour, size or pattern you could dream of, you can find it here!!,
Lot’s more to come from this pretty seaside town.