Asilah, the Moroccan treasure in the north

Asilah, also known as Azila, or Assilah, is a Moroccan city on the north Atlantic coast, located 46 kilometers south of Tangier and 110 kilometers north of Ceuta. The ancient town rests on a plain close to a hill that borders the sea. It is next to the new city, resting behind its majestic walls, opposing the water for five centuries. Every Thursday morning, a vibrant and colorful souk is set up at the foot of the other wall: peoples from the countryside, dressed in their best and wearing wide hats, display the products of their region, stacked high in huge baskets and wicker baskets.

Asilah

Asilah, like other Moroccan cities on the Atlantic coast, has a tumultuous history of conquests and vicissitudes. Jill was an ancient Punic, Roman, and Phoenician city that became an independent emirate in the 9th century before being conquered by the Umayyad, Almohad, and Almoravid empires. It was a Portuguese square destroyed at the end of the 15th century. It was here that the old town and its Medina were built (taking advantage of an earlier layout from the Almoravid era, according to some sources).

There existed a non-aggression pact between Spain and Portugal at the time, with Spain free to conquer the Mediterranean coast and Portugal free to conquer the Atlantic. Later, the Spanish briefly occupied it in the late 17th century. Still, the Saad dynasty rapidly retook it at the end of the 16th century. Asilah was retaken by Muley Ismail in 1691. Following the Spanish expulsion, the Medina was reconstructed and is now what we know it to be.

Why Visit Asilah?

The charming town of Asilah is on the coast and is known for its lovely beaches and lively arts scene. The Medina has small streets, whitewashed buildings, and bright murals, making it a lovely place for a quiet walk. The unique charm comes from the mix of Moroccan and Portuguese styles.

Along with its beautiful scenery, Asilah is home to a yearly art festival where artists worldwide show off their work. With its laid-back vibe, fresh seafood, traditional Moroccan markets, and historic sites like the city walls and Portuguese defenses, the town is a great place to relax, learn about history, and enjoy culture.

Top Attractions in Asilah

Medina 

Asilah is known for its maze of alleys lined with white houses, many adorned with murals by visiting artists. The Medina is considered one of the cleanest in Morocco, with its well-preserved neo-Arab structures and bright, refreshing atmosphere. The town’s white houses and modest mosques reflect a serene Andalusian style, while the sounds of the sea and the salt air evoke a coastal charm similar to Cádiz.

The town’s historic walls, built by Alfonso V of Portugal in the 15th century, enclose the Medina and have three main entrance gates: Bab Homar, Bab Kasbah, and Bab el Bahar (Sea Gate). Inside, a labyrinth of alleys and buildings with green and blue shutters creates a peaceful, picturesque setting, making Asilah a unique and relaxing place to explore.

tower and sea

Asilah’s region is highlighted by the Al-Kamra tower at the Bab el Kasbah gate, leading to Ibn Khaldun Square. Nearby, a beach filled with fishing boats adds to the charm. Visitors pass the Great Mosque and Hassan II Cultural Center before reaching the Cultural Museum, which hosts the annual art festival every August and contemporary art exhibitions.

palace Raisuni

The Palace of Raisuni stands in a small plaza, built at the turn of the 20th century as the home of Asilah’s former governor. From its terrace, the Raisuli forced victims to jump over a 30-meter drop. Nearby, the Torreón (or Mirador de Caraquia) offers stunning views of the Medina and coast, making it a popular sunset spot.

the Kuba

The pastel green dome of the Kuba by Sidi Ahmed el Mansur can be seen at its foot and adjacent to the sea. A modest Mujahideen cemetery with approximately twenty tombs covered in glazed pottery may be seen. One of the murals created during the Cultural Festival may be seen in front of the viewpoint. Another door that leads to the beaches is Bab Krikiya, which is right next to it.

Bab Homar

Topped by Portuguese weaponry that is difficult to read due to wear and disrepair and nicknamed ‘Puerta de Tierra’ by the Spanish, it is reached through the same maze of lanes.

Ahfir souk

We enter the Ahfir souk on Ibn Batoutta street through this door, where we may perform all kinds of shopping. Next is Hassan II Avenue, lined with terraces serving seafood and local cuisine. Prepare to be surrounded, as there is a slew of waiters and commission-based intermediates here.

church of San Bartólomé

Buildings from the Protectorate period, such as the medersa from the 1930s, can still be found in Asilah’s new city. From the contemporary town created under the Spanish protectorate, we will visit the church of San Bartólomé, a Catholic church built in the manner of the Spanish missions of North America. Following Hassan II avenue, we will arrive at the old city, which dates from 15th-century Portuguese.

Zalaka square

The recently refurbished Zalaka square stands out in this city, where you can have breakfast or a drink because it is a charming sight. The center market and the Moulay Al Hassan Ben Mehdi promenade, enclosed by a wall, are well worth seeing (partly painted white and part original stone).

Central beach

The town’s central beach lies below the promenade, offering a great spot to relax during a visit to Asilah. The harbour, used for both tourism and fishing, offers views of the Atlantic Ocean, with Cape Spartel nearby marking the point between the Mediterranean and Atlantic. Locals gather here to enjoy sunsets, and the nearby market features traditional street musicians performing local instruments.

Where to Stay in Asilah

Motel Asilah

One choice that won’t break the bank, with comfortable rooms close to the beach and the town center.

Hotel Al Khaima

This is a lovely hotel in the traditional Moroccan way. It is close to the Medina and great for people who want to learn about other cultures.

Dar el Kasbah

The beautiful boutique hotel is in a renovated Moroccan house. It has views of the ocean and a calm, real atmosphere.

Residence Hotelière Baha Souk

This is a new hotel with large rooms and lots of services. It is close to the beach and the town’s cultural sites.

Exploring the Culture of Asilah

Local Culture: Asilah’s culture is a lively mix of Portuguese and Moroccan styles. The town’s artistic past can be seen in its murals and cultural events, especially the annual art festival.

Food: Asilah has delicious Moroccan food, with fresh seafood being a highlight due to its coastal location. Traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, and bastilla are available daily in local restaurants.

Music: Asilah’s music combines traditional Moroccan rhythms with international sounds. The town hosts music festivals, especially in the summer, with local and international artists.

Clothes: People in Asilah wear djellabas and kaftans, but the town’s unique fashion can be seen in the Medina.

Things to Do in Asilah 

Shopping

The bazaars of Asilah are an excellent alternative; it is much more relaxing to shop here than in Tangier because the trade is less aggressive. This is a perfect spot to look if you’re looking for some handmade items.

Beaches

The best beach in Asilah is Paradise Beach, located 3 kilometers (1.5 miles) south of the city. It’s a vast, fine-sand beach perfect for castle-building, camel-riding, or simply relaxing and enjoying the sun and the Atlantic wind. You can take a taxi or a buggy (horse-drawn transport) to get there. You’ll find a lovely stretch of sand and water north of the Medina.

Asilah’s Medina is clean, well-kept, and pleasant to walk around. Two main entrances are available for accessing the area: Bab el-Kasabah and Bab el-Homar.

The walls are a must-see on your vacation to Asilah since they offer the most incredible sunset views. It’s also an excellent spot for photography. The Portuguese built the walls almost 500 years ago, but they have been renovated numerous times.

Wall Painting

For many years, Asilah in Morocco has drawn painters who have left their mark on the Medina’s colorful walls. These murals are repainted each year during the Asilah Cultural Festival in July/August. The Medina’s schools have some of the best examples of these paintings hanging on their walls.