Visit the City of Tangier
Tangier (Arabic Tandja), city of northern Morocco, capital of the province of Tangier and port of a small bay in the Strait of Gibraltar, backed by the foothills of the Rif. Tangier is a free port with various industries.
Crossroads of civilizations, at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, Tangier spreads a beautiful bay at the foot of green hills. From the Kasbah, one can visit the Sultan’s Palace, where are gathered all the facets of the Moroccan art. If you prefer, you can also stroll through the narrow streets of the Medina, which will take you to the terrace overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Nearby, there are many excursions available, such as Cape Spartel, the extreme tip of Africa, not far from the famous caves of Hercules, and Cape Malabata.
Crossroads of civilizations because of its strategic position, Tangier, gateway to the African continent, has the advantage of also observing Europe, admiring both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.Junction point of as many destinations, Tangier was inevitably predestined to be marked by the winds of history and in this respect, we can say that the passage of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Berbers, Portuguese and Spaniards would leave indelible traces before the grip in the hands of the city by Moroccans.
Like most cities of the Kingdom, Tangier la Blanche also has its Medina, an old Arab city that houses two picturesque markets: the big Socco and the Petit Socco (Spanish word for souk). If the famous journalist Joseph Kessel devoted a remarkable book “Au Grand Socco” – published in 1952 – illustrious other names of literature (all trends) were strongly influenced by the colors and lights of the city of Detroit. Many of them have stayed there for a long time, if not at home. The animation and the swarming of the Grand Socco inspired all those who, fascinated, looked “(…) from morning to night, these merchants, buyers and curious meeting in full sun, in the wind, among the tinsel a hundred colors and the rumor with a thousand cries (…) “.
Another celebrity of Tangier, the gardens of Mendoubia whose trees are eight centuries old; the Mosque of Sidi Bouabid which dominates from its minaret decorated with multicolored faience the Medina, the Place de la Kasbah with its portico of white marble columns and the great Mechouar where the pashas once gave their audiences. The status of international free trade area enjoyed by the city for several years has strengthened the celebrity of Tangier, become a must for any tourist wishing to really discover Morocco.
Place to visit :
The Grand Socco: Huge permanent market located at the entrance of the Medina. Due to its geographical position and the many commercial activities that take place there, this square is the busiest crossing point of Tangier. At the Grand Socco, peasant women are recognizable by their straw hats decorated with pompoms, as well as togas “fouta”, the white and red fabrics they surround themselves with.
Petit Socco: A sort of small square surrounded by cafes and old hotels. In the shops, the carpenters work the wood, tailors make Djellabas. In the lowest part of the Medina, there are some plots of fortifications established by the English. To the east, a platform offers a panoramic view of the old port of Tangier and the bay.
Dar el Makhzen: This former palace of the Sultan was built during the reign of Moulay Ismaïl and experienced various enlargements in the following centuries. This palace has beautiful apartments with mosaics and carved plaster, and has a patio lined with marble columns. The building now houses the Museum of Moroccan Arts of Tangier and a small archaeological collection mainly from Volubilis.
Kasbah Square: This square offers a very extensive view of the bay and the port of Tangier. It opens onto a lane lined with houses richly decorated with carvings of cherubs, windows and multicolored balconies.
Forbes Museum: The museum is housed in the former home of billionaire Malcom Forbes. From 1978, he gathered one hundred and fifteen thousand military figurines, then, shortly before his death in 1990, bequeathed his collection to the city of Tangier. The famous Bataiile of the Three Kings is the centerpiece of the museum. The scene is made up of more than six hundred handmade figurines, drawn, modeled and painted by one of the world’s leading experts in the manufacture of lead soldiers, Edward Suren.
Café Hafa : Located a few hundred meters from the Malcom Forbes Museum, this café, most of the tables are set on small terraces, offers a steep view of the sea. Hung on the hill, surrounded by flowers and flowers. shrubs, coffee Hafa is a haven of peace, Paul Bowles sometimes came there to drink a mint tea.
Caves of Hercules: Located 10 Km from Tangier, it is natural and limestone caves in which the sea enters at high tide. According to Greek mythology, it was inside the cave that Hercules found rest after the accomplishment of his exploits.
Cape Spartel: is a place that charms and attracts all fans of beautiful views. Lovers come to find peace and romance, photographers find beautiful landscapes to immortalize, the romantic there are magnificent views to contemplate. Cape Spartel also called Ras Spartel is located 14 kilometers west of Tangier on the same road that leads to the Caves of Hercules. This mythical place is home to a lighthouse dating from October 15, 1864, which gives a plus to this place that is not lacking in charm. It is in this precise place that the Mediterranean and the Atlantic cross, you will not find anywhere else a site like this. This place is simply unique in the world.
