With its crumbling medina set along the Oud Er-Rbia river, Azemmour is a traditional Moroccan town that attracts artists and creative types. It was established as a coastal trading post by the Portuguese and famed as the home of Estevanico the Black, who became the first African slave to travel with the Spanish Narvaez expedition across North America.
Things to do in Azemmour
Azemmour’s 16th-century Portuguese-built walls rise above the banks of the river, with whitewashed houses clustered behind. Art galleries, boutiques and convenience stores occupy the lower floors, while riad terraces offer panoramas towards towering minarets from the upper levels.
Wander through the old medina to grassy Place du Souk and explore the ruined kasbah, then take in the views of the river and henna orchards that sprawl on the far bank. Spend time visiting the old Mellah district where Azemmour’s large Jewish population once lived, with an old synagogue that houses the tomb of Rabbi Abraham Moul Niss.
After exploring the medina, make the short walk through the eucalyptus forest to Haouzia Beach for a swim. The sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean are particularly impressive here, with beachfront restaurants where you can feast on tagines or freshly barbecued fish.
Want to learn more about Morocco’s Portuguese history? Spend some time exploring nearby El Jadida, whose 16th-century Cité Portugaise is UNESCO World Heritage-listed. You can stop en route for a round of golf at Mazagan Beach, where you’ll find a picture-perfect stretch of white sand.
Getting around Azemmour
Azemmour is located around one-hour drive west of Casablanca and connected by regular bus services and share taxis. El Jadida is just 20 minutes’ drive away, with plenty of private taxis available.