This used to be one of the best-kept secrets of Morocco. It was the most beautiful little beach town. The medina was especially wide and beautiful. The fortress was built by the Portuguese and added so much to the ambience of this little fishing town.
The main things for sale in Essouira were woodwork and carpets. And, of course, you had to have fresh seafood. When in the area around Essouira, check out the Argan Valley. Goats actually climbed the trees there to eat from the Argan trees. Truly amazing!
In the 50s and 60s, Essaouira became a favourite refuge for rock stars (Cat Stevens, Jimmy Hendrix...) in need of rest and relaxation; Orson Welles shot his famous film Othello there.
Today, numerous foreigners are settling in Essaouira, restoring the old houses of the Kasbah and opening hotels and restaurants, all careful to respect the town’s heritage and traditions