Essaouira: Sightseeing and Monuments
The Ramparts of Essaouira and Skala de la Ville
The Ramparts of Essaouira can be reached by going a little bit north from the Moulay Hassan square. They are an impressive sight and a walk along them is quite enjoyable — you will also see many artists exposing and selling their artwork here. The Skala de la Ville is the fortification built along the cliffs which looks really amazing, with all the brass cannons lined up to defend the city from sea attacks. The fort was built in 18th century and is a fine example of European military architecture of that period. A small curiosity: The opening scene of Orson Welles' Othello was filmed on the Essaouira's ramparts.
Don't miss the port with all the fishermen and their bright-colored boats: this is a very pleasant scene which can't be seen often. Essaouira is not a big fishing port and that's where its charm comes from, too.
Ile de Mogador
The Ile de Mogador (Mogador Island) is an island right across the bay (the biggest among many other little ones), home to a fort too, and an abandoned prison. Eleonora's Falcons come here to breed. To visit the island, you must obtain a permit from the port authorities.
Essaouira's Medina
The medina of Essaouira is delightful. It is so easy-going, with all its small shops, cafés, craftsmanship products... you have to take slow, long walk across it. Make sure to visit the small square across the jeweller's souq: you will see antiquities being sold there (a lot of delightful old teapots, among other things) and artists sitting and painting.