Ancient Cities of Morocco

Morocco is not just an ordinary tourist destination; it is an open history book that tells the story of civilizations that have succeeded one another on its land for thousands of years. From the indigenous Amazigh (Berbers) to the Romans, and all the way to the Islamic and Andalusian civilizations that left their mark in every corner. The historical cities in Morocco are characterized by a unique architectural and cultural diversity that blends authenticity with living history. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the 7 most ancient historical cities in Morocco, to discover their special charm and most prominent landmarks.

1. Fez

• History: Founded in the 8th century AD, it is the scientific and spiritual capital of Morocco, and is home to the oldest continually operating university in the world.
• Main Landmarks: University of Al-Qarawiyyin, the gates of the old Medina such as Bab Boujloud, and the traditional tanneries (Chouara).
• Unique Feature: The largest car-free old city in the world, where you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Middle Ages.
• Practical Tip: Hire a local tour guide when visiting the Medina to avoid getting lost in the maze of its more than 9,000 alleyways.

2. Marrakech

• History: Founded by the Almoravids in the 11th century, it is known as the “Red City” due to the color of its historical walls. It was the capital of several successive empires.
• Main Landmarks: Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Bahia Palace, and Majorelle Gardens.
• Unique Feature: Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which is a living, open-air theater gathering storytellers, musicians, and street food vendors.
• Practical Tip: Visit the square in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset from one of the balconies of the surrounding cafes.

3. Volubilis

• History: An ancient Roman city dating back to the 3rd century BC. It is considered one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa.
• Main Landmarks: Triumphal Arch (Arch of Caracalla), the Capitol, and stunning floor mosaics.
• Unique Feature: It represents the convergence of Roman civilization with local Amazigh culture.
• Practical Tip: Make sure to visit the site early in the morning or before sunset to avoid the heat, as there is little shade in the open site.

4. Chefchaouen

• History: Founded in the 15th century as a military fortress to repel Portuguese invasions, and later inhabited by Andalusians and Jews expelled from Spain.
• Main Landmarks: Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the Kasbah, and the Ras el-Maa waterfall.
• Unique Feature: All its buildings and streets are painted in shades of blue, giving it a peaceful and magical atmosphere rarely found anywhere else in the world.
• Practical Tip: Wander into the side alleys away from the main squares to get the best souvenir photos without the crowds.

5. Tetouan

• History: Known as the “White Dove,” it was rebuilt in the 15th century by Andalusian refugees, giving it a purely Andalusian character.
• Main Landmarks: The Medina (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Royal Palace, and the Spanish Ensanche district.
• Unique Feature: The perfect blend of old Moroccan-Andalusian architecture and Spanish colonial architecture.
• Practical Tip: Set aside time to visit the National Institute of Fine Arts and Tetouan School of Arts and Crafts to discover authentic traditional handicrafts.

6. Meknes

• History: The capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, known as the “Versailles of Morocco” for its many palaces and massive walls.
• Main Landmarks: Bab Mansour (the largest gate in Morocco), the Sahrij Swani basin, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
• Unique Feature: A quieter city compared to Fez and Marrakech, offering a rich historical tourist experience without the hustle and bustle.
• Practical Tip: Combine your visit to Meknes with a trip to the nearby Volubilis site on the same day.

7. Essaouira

• History: A fortified coastal city, built by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah in the 18th century with the help of French engineers to be a major port.
• Main Landmarks: The Skala de la Ville, the walls of Essaouira, the traditional fishing port, and the Medina.
• Unique Feature: A bohemian atmosphere and constant winds make it the capital of surfing sports and the home of spiritual Gnawa music.
• Practical Tip: Don’t miss tasting the fresh seafood directly from the stalls located in the city’s port.

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