presentation
Tetouan, called Titwan Tittawen or Arabic, is located near the Strait of Gibraltar to the extreme north of the mountains of the western Rif.
This city, which was founded in the third century BC., Is the capital and cultural center of the region of Tangier in northern Morocco. It is also the main summer residence of King Mohammed VI.
The Andalusian influence
During the Islamic period, from the eighth century, Tetouan was the main point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by Andalusian refugees returned after being expelled by the Spanish.
Today, architecture and art reflect this strong influence, so Tetouan is considered the most Andalusian city of the kingdom.
Its medina is one of the smallest of the Moroccan medinas, but also one of the most comprehensive. It brings together all the features of the high Andalusian culture, which earned him an entry in the World Heritage.
Visit the Medina
The Medina of Tetouan is regarded by experts as the most interesting of all the medinas of Morocco. Situated on a gentle slope of the mountain Ders, surrounded by five kilometers of ramparts dating from the late fifteenth century.
You can access the medina through Bab Okla, one of the most beautiful city gates. In front of this door, you will see a spectacular fountain with pottery and calligraphy.
Inside the town with its picturesque streets, Andalusian style comes into its own, with wrought iron windows, Andalusian balconies and pristine facades.
The houses, which may or may not include a garden (riad), feature rich decoration, using the mosaic of Fez and painted wood.
Be sure to visit the Royal Palace, built in the seventeenth century and restored in the early twentieth century, the mosque Lalla Fariya which is the oldest in the city (built in 1170) and of course the souks and Mesdaa Saquia El Fouqia.
