Port of Essaouira Sqala — Attraction in Essaouira

Essaouira, often called the "Wind City of Africa," is renowned for its charming port and impressive fortifications, among which the Skalas (or Scala in French) are particularly significant. These historic bastions offer not only stunning views of the Atlantic but also a deep dive into the city's rich past. The Skalas of Essaouira: Sentinels of the Atlantic Essaouira boasts two main Skalas: the Skala de la Kasbah and the Skala du Port. Both are artillery platforms dating back to the 18th century, built under the orders of Sultan Mohammed ben Abdellah, who transformed the small town into a vital international trading port. The design of these fortifications shows a strong European influence, particularly that of French military architect Vauban, making Essaouira's ramparts unique in Morocco. Skala de la Kasbah (or Skala de la Ville) This impressive two-level artillery platform is a major part of Essaouira's fortified medina. It stretches along the ocean, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the crashing waves and the medina's rooftops. The ground floor of the Skala de la Kasbah once served as storage rooms, and today, you can find various souvenir and artisanal shops here. Adorned with numerous antique bronze cannons, many of which are Spanish-made, the Skala de la Kasbah vividly illustrates Essaouira's strategic importance as a defensive stronghold. It played a crucial role in protecting the city from invasions, notably during the French bombardment of Mogador in the 19th century. Its striking architecture and historical ambiance have made it a popular filming location, famously appearing in productions like Orson Welles' "Othello" and the renowned series "Game of Thrones." Skala du Port Located within Essaouira's bustling port, the Skala du Port is another significant artillery platform. Built in 1769 on the remains of a Portuguese castle, the "Castelo Real," this bastion was specifically designed to defend the port entrance. It consists of two fortified wings, forming a right angle, and is overseen by the circular bastion of Borj el-Barmil. The Skala du Port offers an excellent vantage point to observe the lively activity of the fishing port, with its vibrant blue boats, and to watch the spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic. Its canons stand as silent witnesses to Essaouira's maritime history, reminding visitors of its past as a crucial commercial hub linking Morocco with Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. Historical Significance The construction of the Skalas was integral to Sultan Mohammed ben Abdellah's vision of Essaouira as a major international trading center. The city, then known as Mogador, became a melting pot of cultures, attracting traders, diplomats, and communities from various backgrounds. The fortifications ensured the city's security, allowing its economy to flourish. Essaouira's Medina, with its ramparts and Skalas, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized as an outstanding example of 18th-century European military architecture translated into a North African context. Visiting the Skalas provides an immersive experience into Essaouira's history, offering a blend of architectural grandeur, historical narrative, and stunning...

Essaouira is a calm and beautiful seaport on the bank of the Atlantic Sea in west of Morocco, and especially in the twilight, when turning the view from land to the broadening sea surface, the color and space is an incredibly picturesque scenery.

I stayed in Essaouira for one night when I was ready to head to Casablanca. Essaouira was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, sheltered by Mogador Island, it is a peaceful harbor and a very historic place. In the 16th century, various powers including Spain, England, Holland and France tried in vain to take over Essaouira. The city still has some 17th-century Spanish cannons along the Atlantic coast. The economically valuable purple dye, extracted from local mollusks and rock shells, soon attracted more and more people to the area.

It's also a popular destination for Moroccans on their honeymoon, and despite being a Muslim country, couples can be seen sitting on cannons sticking to each other.

Although the harbor was calm, the wind from the Atlantic was still strong. It's great for surfing in the right season, so many French tourists like to come here for their holidays. The real beach is outside the old city, Medina, where there are a lot of modern hotels and a couple of vendors selling chickpeas, which are delicious.

Under the collision of different cultures, Essaouira has its own special interest that white and blue are the city's theme colors. White seagulls fly freely and blue fishing boats shuttle.

The picturesque castles and turrets, a maze like of local communities, complicated alleys, quiet squares, art workshops, bustling wharf downtown, and known as the number one sunset in Morocco...

The Sqala du Port in Essaouira is a remarkable 18th-century artillery platform built in 1769 under the orders of Sultan Mohammed Ben Abdellah. Designed by architect Théodore Cornut, a disciple of Vauban, it was constructed to protect the port from maritime threats. The structure features two fortified wings intersecting at a right angle, adorned with Spanish and Dutch bronze cannons manufactured between 1743 and 1782.

Strategically positioned at the port's entrance, the Sqala offered a commanding view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. It played a significant role in the defense of Essaouira, particularly during the French bombardment of Mogador in the early 19th century.

Today, the Sqala du Port stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the structure, enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and the city, and appreciate the craftsmanship of the cannons and the...