History of Essaouira

Known as the Isle of Mogador, the earliest mention of the beautiful province of Essaouira was found in the accounts of the Phoenicians during the 7th century B.C. as an important and hospitable stopover while traveling towards the equator. The history of Essaouira is one that has always revolved around the trading circuits of the Afro-Asian belt. One of the most important points in the history of Essaouira was probably the rule of Juba II, the king of Mauritania, who was instrumental in establishing a dye factory here, which brought attention to the natural resources of this quaint medieval paradise.

An especially influential chapter was to be written in the history of Essaouira during the 15th century when the Portuguese arrived in the territory to name it as one of the most prestigious conquests. This was also the beginning for a number of external influences that was to change the shape of the culture of Essaouira as well as the culture of Morocco forever. These include cultures like those of the Berbers, Jews, Arabs, Portuguese as well as certain Saharan tribes. Today, this trait is perhaps one of Essaouira's most recognizable symbols which have earned a place for this tiny coastal town in UNESCO's certified list of world heritage sites which declares Essaouira as a "patrimony of the humanity".