National Geographic’s Karlina Valeiko succumbs to the charm of Essaouira
Karlina Valeiko, deputy digital editor at National Geographic Traveller, has succumbed to the charm of Essaouira and to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic scene, praising the Moroccan Atlantic port city for blending Amazigh, Arabic, and European influences to create a unique atmosphere that continues to attract visitors.
Over the centuries, the city’s famed Atlantic breezes have blown in French, Portuguese, Spanish and even British influences, which have blended with Arabic and Amazigh traditions, explains the author of the feature article.
From its UNESCO-listed medina to its role as an art and music hub, Essaouira stands out as a destination for both culture and adventure, writes Karlina Valeiko, underlining that the city’s historic and lively streets, laid out in a grid system, make it easy for visitors to explore and watch artisans modeling ceramics, carving wood, and engraving jewelry. Essaouira’s artistic spirit thrives in spaces such as Le Real Mogador and Gallery Kasbah, where contemporary Moroccan art is showcased in traditional riads.
National Geographic also underscored the rich Jewish heritage of the city, as highlighted by Bayt Dakira, a museum dedicated to preserving this heritage, and the Chaim Pinto Synagogue.
The city, which made Morocco a key stop on the hippy trail of the 1960s and 1970s, moves today to the beat of its own drum, with Gnawa rhythms filling the air. The Gnaoua and World Music Festival, held every June, is a major event where hypnotic vocals and traditional instruments create a captivating atmosphere.
“Like the five towering gates, or babs, that open onto the city’s medina, these spiritual rhythms may seem like portals into Morocco’s past.”
Beyond its cultural appeal, Essaouira offers outdoor adventures. The Skala de la Ville ramparts, designed by French architect Theodore Cornut, offer panoramic views of the Atlantic.
The historic fishing port, once a central trade hub, remains a focal point of daily life. National Geographic also notes that the city’s strong winds make it an ideal destination for surfing and kitesurfing, with lessons available along the main beach. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can take quad-biking tours along coastal trails.
Essaouira’s mix of history, art, and outdoor adventure makes it a must-visit destination. National Geographic’s feature further cements the city’s reputation as a place where the past and present merge, offering a unique and enduring experience for travelers. For National Geographic, this coastal town should be on every Morocco itinerary.
