2 Best Sights in Azemmour, Rabat, Casablanca, and the North Atlantic Coast

Background Illustration for Sights

Azemmour's medina is divided into three parts—the Mellah (or Jewish Quarter), the kasbah, and the old medina—and, to appreciate the attractions within it fully, you should arrange for a guide through your riad. While the area retains much of its traditional charm, the influence of local and foreign artists is also visible. Lured by Azemmour’s unique lighting, many have chosen to set up shop here; and as you wander the medina streets, their murals are a delightful surprise. It's worth stopping into one of the studios or galleries to see the artists and their work.

Although the new town offers quite a contrast, it warrants a visit as well. Located on the opposite side of the road to the medina, it contains the tomb of Sidi Bouchaib, a saint recognized for his abilities to heal dementia. Only Muslims can enter, but everyone can peep into the initial porch or just admire the architecture outside. From there, wander down through the busy thoroughfare, Boulevard Ahmed Choufani, which is unfrequented by tourists but full of locals. It’s flanked by a multitude of hole-in-the-wall shops selling old-school wares, many of which are related to healing and spells. Expect to find anything from leeches and fox tails to animal bones, all used in traditional medicine.

Ahmed el-Amine

Perhaps Azemmour's most renowned resident artist, Ahmed el-Amine has been painting in and around the medina for nearly two decades. He still lives here, working out of this studio.

6, Derb el-Hantati, Azemmour, Morocco
0523-35–89–02

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Galerie Akwas

The medina's original gallery exhibits the work of artists from across the nation. It was founded by Abderrahmane Rahoul, former director of the Ecole Supérieure des Beaux Arts in Casablanca, who is a well-known and highly respected visual artist himself.

4, Bab El Makhzen, Azemmour, Azemmour, Morocco
0661-41–08–31

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