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Essaouira

General Information about Essaouira

The Moroccan city Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in the west of the nation. Essaouira is situated about 155 kilometres to the west of the city Marrakech and 400 kilometres south west of Morocco's capital city Rabat. Essaouira is a popular destination for independent travelers and those wishing to take their time exploring the city with it labyrinth-like streets. Essaouira has an estimated population of around 70,000 people.

There are three main sites in Essaouira. The most popular of these is Ile de Mogador, an archeaological site made up of two major islands and several tiny islets. These islands lie to the south west of Essaouira in the Atlantic Ocean. Ile de Mogador is flanked by a fort on each side and features a mosque, small harbour, a 19th century prison (now unused) and some rusty cannons. The surrounding uninhabited islands are a sanctuary for the Falcon's which live in the area.

Essouira's recently restored and remodelled museum features many collections, such as jewellery, clothing, musical instruments, costumes, carpets and weapons which belong to the surrounding area. There are also many photographs in the Essouira Museum which were taken of the city at the turn of the last century and a section which explains the signage and symbols used by the local craftspeople.

Some of the other activities in Essaouira which are popular include windsurfing and kitesurfing because of the city's perfect location along the Atlantic Ocean. Essaouira is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is a reknowned example of a late 18th century fortified town.