Tetouan "The White Dove"

Clinging to the flanks of Jebel Dersa, this beautiful Arab-Andalusian city dominates the fertile valley of Wadi Martil. Behind its imposing ramparts, Tetouan is home to a large medina sparsely terraced and gardens with simple charm. The maze of winding alleys contrasts beautifully with the Hispano-Moorish architecture of the new city. Proud of its history and flourishing craftsmanship, the white city deserves attention.

VISIT THE CITY OF TETOUAN

• Start the walk by the Place Hassan II, on which sits the former palace of the caliphate of Tetouan (Dar El Makhzen). This huge esplanade is the liveliest in the city.

• The souks are two steps away: take Mexuar street and enter the medina. We wander with pleasure through the alleys and arcades, in a mysterious and haunting atmosphere. You will find yourselves easily in the souks, each street is devoted to a particular craft or commercial activity: dinandiers, cabinetmakers, nettiers, leather craftsmen or spice merchants … Discover all the secrets of the Rifain know-how!

• Near Place Hassan II, take the time to discover the Mellah of Tetouan: this old Jewish district is home to several traditional shops. Walking through the narrow streets you will see beautiful facades, doors and windows decorated with colorful ceramics and elegant ironwork. (From the Place Hassan II take the street of the Luneta).

FLOWERING CRAFTS
Lovers of art and aesthetics, do not miss the visit of the craft school of Tetouan. Various trades are taught, including the work of leather, wood, ceramics, cloth and wool. Familiarize yourself with the crafts of the region, then you will know exactly what to bring back in your suitcases! (From Hassan II Square, take Ach Ahmed Torres Street and go straight to the East Gate of the Medina, Bab el Okla).

SPANISH COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE IN TETOUAN
In the center of the new city, let yourself be amazed by these imposing balconies, these huge windows and doors set with wrought iron: everything reminds the traveler of the colors of Andalusia. Built on the peeled mountain, this district offers a beautiful panorama of the mountain and the foothills of the Rif.

• Avenue Mohammed V, which connects the Place Hassan II to that of Moulay Idriss, is lined with surprising buildings: the colorful facades and loggias, which date from the early twentieth, testify with elegance of the Spanish past of Tetouan. A very pleasant walk, which will lead you to the beautiful Hassan II mosque.

• The archaeological museum is a must visit: it contains all the secrets of northwestern Morocco from prehistory to the seventeenth century. The galleries devoted to Roman Antiquity, Phoenicians and Punic civilization are particularly interesting. (Near Al Jalal Square and Mohamed V Avenue)

WALKS AND EXCURSIONS IN TETOUAN

• Do not miss the ruins of the ancient city of Tamuda: settlement and commercial development of the region dates back to the Phoenician-Punic era (3rd century BC). The site knew a great prosperity.

• The beaches of the russian crescent: between Tétouan and Ceuta, relax on the seaside resorts of Martil, Cabo Negro, Kabila and Smir.

• The market of Khémis El Anjra: every Thursday this village comes alive and dresses in the most beautiful colors of the Rif. A nice show that brings together all the farmers in the region.

• Oued Laou: for hikers, a nice excursion to the country rhomora awaits you! After crossing the Martil valley, you will climb on the slopes of the Rif: among the pines, the view overlooking the wild coves of the Moroccan coast is stunning. Arrived at the village Oued Laou, enjoy its beach and its picturesque streets.