About Essaouira
One of the most charming coastal cities in Africa, Essaouria in Morocco is renowned
for its windsurfing and fishing spots. Essaouira stands witness to a long and
illustrious history. It was discovered by the Phoenicians around the 7th century
BC and was probably the site of the lost Cerne Island, which the Carthaginian
Hanno colonized with 30,000 people in 450 BC.
When the French protectorate was established in 1912 AD, the town was rechristened
Mogador and lost much of its importance to the flourishing port cities of Casablanca,
Tangier and Agadir. After independence in 1956, this dormant backwater region
got back its original name Essaouira.
Since there is a plethora of popular destinations in Essaouira, in recent past
the town has become a famous location for movie shoots. But it still continues
to maintain a busy working port. The cozy, well-equipped harbor, immediately
southwest of the Medina, is a hub of activity, with nets laid out on the quayside,
fishing boats unloading their catch, traditional wooden boats being built and
seafood sizzling on outdoor grills.
|
