Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida)
Location: El Jadida, Morocco
Year of Inscription: 2004
Criteria: (ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Portuguese City of Mazagan, located in the coastal city of El Jadida in Morocco, was established by the Portuguese in the early 16th century as a fortified trading post on the Atlantic coast of Africa. The city was designed in accordance with Renaissance principles, and its unique blend of European and Moorish architecture makes it one of the most well-preserved examples of a Portuguese colonial city in the world.
Prominent Features: The Portuguese City of Mazagan is characterized by its massive ramparts, bastions, and gates, which were designed to protect the city from attack. Some of the most notable sites include:
The Cistern: A large underground water storage facility with an intricately carved ceiling and a capacity of over 5 million liters.
The Church of the Assumption: A Gothic-style church built in the early 16th century, with a façade adorned with Manueline-style decoration.
The Portuguese City Walls: Massive ramparts that surround the city, punctuated by six bastions and three gates.
History: The Portuguese City of Mazagan played an important role in the global trade network of the early modern period. The city was an important center for the trade of gold, ivory, and slaves, and it served as a hub for the exchange of goods between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The city was also the site of several major battles, including the 1769 siege by Moroccan forces that marked the end of Portuguese rule in the city.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the massive city walls and gates, descend into the atmospheric cistern, and learn about the city's rich history at the onsite museum. There are also several beaches in the area where visitors can swim and relax.
Fun Fact: It was used as a location in several Hollywood movies, including Othello (1951) and The Man Who Would Be King (1975).
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of 60 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately 6 USD) for adults to visit the Portuguese City of Mazagan. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free.
How to Reach It: The Portuguese City of Mazagan is easily accessible by public transportation from major cities in Morocco, including Casablanca and Marrakech. Visitors can take a train or bus to El Jadida and then take a taxi to the city.
From Rabat: Take a train from Rabat to El Jadida, which takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the type of train.
From Marrakesh: Take a train from Marrakesh to El Jadida, which takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on the type of train.
From Casablanca: The train journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes
The train station in Mazagan is located about 3 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the historic site.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and resorts located in El Jadida, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury properties. Some popular choices include Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf & Spa, and Hotel ibis budget El Jadida.
Next Stop: Medina of Essaouira
Year of Inscription: 2004
Criteria: (ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Portuguese City of Mazagan, located in the coastal city of El Jadida in Morocco, was established by the Portuguese in the early 16th century as a fortified trading post on the Atlantic coast of Africa. The city was designed in accordance with Renaissance principles, and its unique blend of European and Moorish architecture makes it one of the most well-preserved examples of a Portuguese colonial city in the world.
Prominent Features: The Portuguese City of Mazagan is characterized by its massive ramparts, bastions, and gates, which were designed to protect the city from attack. Some of the most notable sites include:
The Cistern: A large underground water storage facility with an intricately carved ceiling and a capacity of over 5 million liters.
The Church of the Assumption: A Gothic-style church built in the early 16th century, with a façade adorned with Manueline-style decoration.
The Portuguese City Walls: Massive ramparts that surround the city, punctuated by six bastions and three gates.
History: The Portuguese City of Mazagan played an important role in the global trade network of the early modern period. The city was an important center for the trade of gold, ivory, and slaves, and it served as a hub for the exchange of goods between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The city was also the site of several major battles, including the 1769 siege by Moroccan forces that marked the end of Portuguese rule in the city.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the massive city walls and gates, descend into the atmospheric cistern, and learn about the city's rich history at the onsite museum. There are also several beaches in the area where visitors can swim and relax.
Fun Fact: It was used as a location in several Hollywood movies, including Othello (1951) and The Man Who Would Be King (1975).
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of 60 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately 6 USD) for adults to visit the Portuguese City of Mazagan. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free.
How to Reach It: The Portuguese City of Mazagan is easily accessible by public transportation from major cities in Morocco, including Casablanca and Marrakech. Visitors can take a train or bus to El Jadida and then take a taxi to the city.
From Rabat: Take a train from Rabat to El Jadida, which takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the type of train.
From Marrakesh: Take a train from Marrakesh to El Jadida, which takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on the type of train.
From Casablanca: The train journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes
The train station in Mazagan is located about 3 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the historic site.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and resorts located in El Jadida, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury properties. Some popular choices include Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf & Spa, and Hotel ibis budget El Jadida.
Next Stop: Medina of Essaouira