Asilah: The Artistic Coastal Gem of Morocco

Asilah, a picturesque fortified town on Morocco's Atlantic coast, is a captivating blend of history, art, and seaside charm. Known for its whitewashed buildings, vibrant murals, and well-preserved ramparts, Asilah offers a tranquil and inspiring escape.

Population

With just over 30,000 inhabitants, Asilah is a smaller, more intimate city, providing a peaceful alternative to Morocco's larger urban centers.

A Rich and Storied History

Asilah's origins date back to 1500 BCE, with a Phoenician settlement known as Silis, Zili, Zilis, or Zilil. The town was originally built by the Shia Idrisid dynasty and later rebuilt by the Umayyad caliph Al-Hakam II in 966.

The Portuguese conquered Asilah in 1471, building fortifications that still stand today. They abandoned the city in 1549 but briefly used it in 1578. After Spanish control, Moroccans under Moulay Ismail retook it in 1692.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Asilah was a base for pirates, leading to Austrian bombardment in 1829. From 1912 to 1956, it was part of Spanish Morocco. In 1978, the International Cultural Moussem of Asilah was launched, revitalizing the town and transforming its walls into an open-air art gallery.

Famous Sites and Historical Monuments

• The Medina: A maze of narrow, whitewashed streets, known for cleanliness and vibrant murals painted during the annual art festival.
• Walls and Towers: Ramparts built by the Almohads and rebuilt by the Portuguese, including Bab Homar, Bab al-Qasaba, and Borj al-Hamra ("Red Tower").
• Grand Mosque of Asilah: Constructed under Moulay Ismail in the late 17th century, notable for its octagonal minaret.
• Raisuli Palace (Palace of Culture): Early 20th-century palace used for cultural events and festivals.
• Church of San Bartolome: Built by Spanish Franciscans in the early 20th century, located outside the medina.
• Jewish Heritage: Sites like the Kahal Synagogue and historic Jewish cemetery are part of Morocco's national heritage.
• Paradise Beach (Rmilate Beach): Expansive beach a few kilometers south of Asilah, ideal for relaxation and enjoying the Atlantic coast.

Asilah's fusion of history, art, and coastal beauty makes it a truly special destination, captivating the hearts of all who visit.

References

• Wikipedia. Asilah. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asilah
• Barcelo.com. Asilah: a town that gazes at the sea from behind its walls. https://www.barcelo.com/guia-turismo/en/morocco/tanger/things-to-do/asilah/
• The Jerusalem Post. Moroccan Culture Ministry adds Jewish sites to national heritage list. https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-845385