Historic City of Meknes

Historic City of Meknes

Founded in the eleventh century by the Almoravids as a military settlement, Meknes became a capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), founder of the Alawite dynasty. He made an impressive city in Moorish style, surrounded by high walls pierced by monumental gateways that shows today the harmonious blending of Islamic and European styles in the seventeenth century Maghreb.

Brief summary

The historic city of Meknes has exerted considerable influence on the development of civil and military architecture (the Casbah) and structures. Founded in 1061 AD by the Almoravids as a military, it takes its name from the great Berber tribe Meknassa, which dominated the eastern Morocco Tafilalet until the eighth century. It enjoys a remarkably well situated in the plain of Saïss, between the Middle Atlas and Rif mountain of pre-Zerhoun. It contains the remains of the medina which reflect the socio-economic fabric and the former imperial city created by the Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727). It is the presence today of this historic city containing the remains rare and important monuments in the midst of a changing urban space, which gives this city its universal heritage. The two sets are surrounded by a series of walls which dissociate from each other. In addition to its architectural interest of Hispano-Moorish style, Meknes is particularly important because it is the first great work of the Alawite dynasty, reflecting the grandeur of its designer. It also offers a remarkable urban design approach incorporating elements of both the architecture and urbanism of the Islamic and European.

Sheltered by high defensive walls, pierced by nine gates, are of key monuments, of which twenty-five mosques, hammams ten, palaces, vast granaries, the remains of fondouks (hotels merchants) and private homes, testimony periods Almoravid Merinid and Alawite.

Criterion (iv): Meknes is characterized by the appearance of large and gigantic ramparts whose height reaches 15 m. It is considered an exemplary witness of the fortified cities of the Maghreb. This is a good representative of a remarkably complete urban structure and architecture of a North African city of the seventeenth century, seamlessly combining elements of design and planning of Islamic and European. With a princely urban planning, the historic city of Meknes also illustrates the architecture specifics of soil (clay) urban sub-Saharan Maghreb.

Integrity (2009)

The Medina and the Kasbah are two sets fortified by ramparts towering who shall ensure its protection. They contain all the elements that reflect the property's Outstanding Universal Value (fortifications, urban, architecture, land, buildings, military and worship, gardens). The medina is a compact and overcrowded while the Kasbah contains large open areas. The imperial city of Medina stands by its long corridors between high walls of the blind, the dark maze of Dar el-Kbira, the richness of Qasr el-Mhansha, extent of gardens and robustness of the towers and bastions.

Although some key attributes of the city and former imperial capital, reflecting the outstanding universal value are well preserved, others need of conservation measures. In general, urban structure and characteristics of the urban fabric of Meknes became vulnerable as a result of rapid and uncontrolled development in part, as the surrounding buffer zone.

Authenticity (2009)

Meknes attributes that reflect his concern for Outstanding Universal Value of the monuments and all part of the urban fabric of the city that illustrate shape of the seventeenth century. Some buildings have become very vulnerable as a result of inappropriate renovations or reconstructions and the urban fabric is also weakened by the erosion of the details. In general, the ability of many to express its outstanding universal value needs to be strengthened because some attributes are already threatened.

Needs protection and management (2009)

Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly the Law 22-80 (1981) on the Conservation of Moroccan heritage. A management plan to own property is not yet available. Rehabilitation actions undertaken to date, initiated by several speakers, the result of a participatory strategy to safeguard and promote that heritage. In addition, the City Council of the city, aware of its role as a key player in the management of the property, created in 2003 within the municipality, an Historic Monuments Service responsible for overseeing and implementing rehabilitation programs of local heritage, in close collaboration with the Regional Inspectorate of Monuments and Sites (Ministry of Culture).

In order to maintain the cultural identity of the city and promote the property's Outstanding Universal Value, regular programs of urban restructuring is underway. In this connection it is worth quoting the following: the development of architectural charter and management plan of the medina, the application of a study of upgrading (restructuring of the axes and arteries, lanes and alleys, treatment and beautification of the exterior facades, consolidation of traditional masonry and flooring). It is within this framework that are part of the restoration of the walls and gates, the rehabilitation of heritage buildings (bastions, palaces, granaries, silos and fortresses), rehabilitation of historical sites and redevelopment of open spaces.

It is necessary to strengthen the institutional capacity to ensure the conservation and rehabilitation of the attributes of Outstanding Universal Value of Meknes receive the highest attention in the field of planning and decision making.

Long Description

[English only]

The Historic City of Meknes Represents year in full and Exceptionally well-preserved way the urban fabric and monumental buildings of a 17th century Maghreb capital city Combining Elements of Islamic and European design and scheduling in a Harmonious fashion. It Has exerted a considerable impact on the development of civil and military architecture (Kasbah) and works of art. It contains aussi The Remains of the royal city Founded by Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727). The presence of These unusual restes Within a historic town in turn That Is Located Within a Rapidly Changing Urban Environment Gives Meknes icts universal value.

The name goes back to the Meknes Meknassa, the great Berber tribe That Dominated eastern Morocco as far back as the Tafilliet Which Produced and Moulay Idriss I, founder of the Moroccan state and the dynasty in the Idrissid 8th century AD.

The Almoravid rulers (1053-1147) made a practice of building strongholds for Storing food and arms for Their troops; This Was Introduced by Ben Youssef Tachafine, the founder of Marrakesh. Established in Meknes WAS this extended period. The Earliest To Be Settled by WAS Nejjarine Around the Mosque, an Almoravid foundation. Markets congregated around the mosque, Specializing in Firearms, woodwork and metal products. Like Other settlements of the time, Meknes Was Not fortified: walls Were not added Until The End Of The Almoravid extended period.

The Town Fell Into the hands of the Almohad dynasty (1147-1269) at the start of Their rule: it was taken by year army led by the Caliph Abd al-Mu'min in person. DURING this période It Was enlarged and urbanized. An inscription states That the Great Mosque enlarged WAS DURING the reign of Mohamed Annacer. Water from the spring Tagma WAS Brought to the town to serve as the: various fountains, baths and mosques. At That Time There Were oven sets of baths (hammam), the location of data and identify how the town Which HAD spread.

During The Subsequent Merinid période (1269-1374), Meknes Absorbed the suburbs That HAD grown up round it. Refugees from the centers in Andalusia Moorish That Fell to Christian forces, aussi Helped to swell the population, Among Them a significant Jewish community. FOLLOWING Merinid practice, Abu Yusuf built a Kasbah (the only mosque of Which Survives) outside the old town, as well as the first of the Three madrassas (Islamic schools) with the Merinid Which rulers endowed Meknes. Other public buildings from the Merinid période included mosques, Hospitals, libraries and fountains.

The founder of the Alawite dynasty, Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), made Meknes historical capital city and Carried Out Many reconstructions and additions, Such as mosques, mausolea and gardens, historical goal contribution hand Was The establishment of a new imperial city. Built in the Hispano-Moorish style, it is impressive in Both extents and construction. It is enclosed by high walls pierced by monumental gates. Within the palace are icts with Enormous stable, a military academy, vast water storage cisterns and granaries.

The high defensive walls of Meknes are pierced by the monumental gates: Bab Mansour Laalej, Lakhmis Bab, Bab Berdain, Bab Jdid, etc.. Within There are Many religious buildings, Especially from The Many mosques and the madrassas successive Periods. Some of the fondouks (inns) That cluster around the gates Were Devoted To Specific crafts or trades: for example, the Fondouk Hanna dealt Solely in henna, while the Jewish craftsmen Worked at the Fondouk Lihoudi. Were some quarters reserved for Specific trades and activities

Source: UNESCO / CLT / WHC

Historical description

The name dates back to Meknes Meknassa illustrates Berber tribe that dominated the eastern Morocco to Tafilalet and received Moulay Idriss I, founder of the Moroccan state and Idrisid dynasty in the 8th century after Jesus Christ.

Leaders Almoravids (1053-1147) had to practice to build a stronghold for the storage of weapons and food for their troops. This practice was introduced by Youssef Ben Tachfine, the founder of Marrakech. Established at the time, Meknes is named Tagrart (Garrison). The oldest part is around the mosque Nejjarine, Almoravid foundation. Markets dealing in firearms, marquetry, metal products, etc.., Form around the mosque. Like other institutions of that time, Meknes is not fortified, the walls will be added at the end of the Almoravid period.

The city fell to the Almohad dynasty (1147-1269) at the beginning of their reign: it is taken by an army led by Caliph Abd el Moumen in person. During this period, the city has grown and urbanized. An inscription shows that the expansion of the Great Mosque dates from the reign of Mohamed Nasser (1199-1213). The water sources of Tagma is made until the city to serve the various fountains, baths and mosques. At that time, there are four kinds of baths (hammam) whose location reflects the expansion of the city.

Then, at the time Merinid (1269-1374), Meknes absorbs suburbs that have grown around it. Refugee centers of Moorish Andalusia fell into the hands of Christians are also joining the ranks of the population of Meknes, among them a large Jewish community. Accordance with the practices of Merinids Abu Youssef (1269-1286) had built a Kasbah (which only the mosque remains) outside the old town and the first of three madrassas (Koranic schools) whose leaders will equip mérinides Meknes .

Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)

Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)


Essaouira is an exceptional example of a fortified town of the late eighteenth century, built in North Africa according to the principles of European military architecture of the time. Since its founding, it has remained an international trading port of the first, linking Morocco and its Saharan hinterland with Europe and the world.

Brief summary
The Medina of Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador (name from the Phoenician word Migdol, meaning "fortress"), is an outstanding example of a fortified city from the mid-eighteenth century, surrounded by a wall of Vauban style. Built in North Africa according to the principles of European military architecture of the time, in perfect combination with the precepts of architecture and urbanism Arab-Muslim, she played for centuries, the role of harbor of major international trading, linking Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and the world. The city also offers an example of a multicultural center as shown in coexistence, from his conception of various ethnic groups such as the Amazigh, Arabs, Africans and Europeans and multi-faith (Muslims, Christians and Jews). Inseparable from the medina, the islands of Mogador has a large number of cultural and natural sites of outstanding universal value. Its founding relatively late compared to other medinas of North Africa was the work of Sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Alawi (1757-1790) who wanted to make this small town Atlantic port and a royal capital of the Moroccan trade with the outside. Long known as the Port of Tombouctou, Essaouira became one of the cornerstones of the Atlantic slave trade between Africa and Europe in the late eighteenth century and throughout the nineteenth century.
Criterion (ii): Essaouira is an outstanding example, well-preserved walled port city of mid-eighteenth century European high inspiration, transposed into a North African context.
Criterion (iv): With the opening of Morocco on the world in the late seventeenth century, the Medina of Essaouira was designed by a French architect deeply influenced by the work of the military engineer Vauban at Saint-Malo . It has largely retained the appearance of a European city.
Integrity (2009)
Completed in the nineteenth century and clearly defined by its walls, the Medina of Essaouira has all the elements essential to its integrity. Forming a homogeneous combination of natural assets (islands of Mogador) and cultural goods of high quality, the city still retains its integrity and original character. Although its integrity has been somewhat altered, in particular due to the degradation of buildings in the Mellah, the degree of loss does not compromise the significance of the property as a whole.
The conservation status of the Medina of Essaouira continues to improve through the efforts of local authorities and vigilance services directly involved in its protection and enhancement.
Authenticity (2009)
Founded in the mid-eighteenth century, the Medina of Essaouira has largely retained its authenticity in terms of both design and forms at the level of materials (use of local stone called manjour) and construction methods and that despite some inappropriate uses of modern materials for repairs and reconstructions. Despite the wave action on the sea side and humidity elsewhere, the urban fortifications and maintain, in all their original configuration.
Needs protection and management (2009)
Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly the law relating to 22-80 Moroccan heritage. Property of the elements constituting the historic town of Essaouira is divided between the State, municipality, Endowments, the Alliance Israelite, cooperatives and individuals. The Master Plan No. 4001 of 1988 provides around the historic city a buffer zone where construction is prohibited. Two measures of protection and management are significant inputs in the final stages of application. This is the blueprint for urban development in the city of Essaouira and the backup plan of the medina.
Local people, governments and the associative space are increasingly sensitive to the outstanding universal value of the medina. The Urban Agency of Essaouira was created to ensure better control of the urbanization of the city in general and in particular the medina. This should allow, in parallel with other ministerial departments, to plan and coordinate efforts and monitor the progress and implementation of projects initiated or planned. Pending the establishment of a management plan of the medina which is expected to reconcile the conservation of architectural heritage and the improvement of living conditions of local people, the services involved in the protection and preservation of the property must ensure the implementation of the development plan of the medina and the entire city of Essaouira.
Long Description

[English only]
Essaouira year is outstanding and well-preserved example of a late 18th-century European fortified seaport town translated to a North African context. With the opening up of Morocco to the rest of the world in the later 17th century, the town WAS ugly out by a French architect Who Influenced profoundly HAD beens by the work of Vauban at Saint-Malo. It Has Retained icts European appearance to a substantial businesses extent.
Icts since foundation in the 18th century and Until the Beginning of the 20th century, Essaouira HAS Fundamental Role Played a year as international trading harbor Between Morocco and the rest of the world. A number of consular and traders from different Countries Were Established there. Essaouira is a leading example of building inspired by European architecture, a town only by Virtue of ict design: it was created in conformité with a predetermined plan, the plan Cornut. Since The Beginning, the medina of Essaouira has-been a major place for the peaceable coming together of the architectural and town-planning models of Europe and of Morocco for itself. In this way a symbiosis WAS Achieved Between technical building from Morocco and Elsewhere That Gave birth to unique architectural masterpieces Some: the Sqalas of the harbor and of the medina, the Bab Marrakech bastion, the Water Gate, mosques, synagogues, churches, etc..
Archaeological excavations Have Shown That the site of Essaouira WAS Originally a Phoenician trading settlement, Followed by Cretans, Greeks and Romans. Earlier the name of Mogador derived from Migdol, meaning-a small box. In 1506 It Was to Become the site of a Portuguese fortress, this goal WAS abandoned soon after.
The present town dates from 1765, When the Alawite Sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Decided to build a harbor That Would open Morocco up to the outside world and assist in Developing trade relationships with Europe. He Sought the help of Nicholas Theodore Cornut, a specialist in military fortifications surveyor from Avignon, Influenced by Who Was Strongly Vauban's Defences at Saint-Malo. He Partially dismantled the Portuguese fortress to build year esplanade with a row of cannons. The Entire town WAS enclosed by a defensive wall on the Vauban model. In order to control maritime trade, the southern coast ET closed to European traders, obliging the European consuls at Safi, Agadir and Rabat to move to Mogador, where 'all southern mercantile activities Were concentrated. The new port Became one of the country's main shopping centers; It Was Called the 'port of Timbuktu' As It Was the destination of caravans Bringing a Variety of products (Including Slavic) from black Africa. The Town Was Made up of Three Separate districts. The old kasbah comprised the administrative district. The medina WAS crossed by Two hand axial streets, one running from Bab Doukalla to the harbor and the Other from Bab Marrakesh to the sea. There Were At Their intersection oven Markets, for fish, spices, grain and general goods respectively.
The Mellah is the Jewish quarter; it Played a very significant role in the history of the town, as the Sultan made use of this community to ESTABLISH relationships with Europe and to organizes business activities with 'em. The main features of the town are: the ramparts, most is of the northern section of Which Survives; the town gates, ornamental Especially the Sea Gate (1170-1171), the bastions and forts (borjs), Especially the Sqala of the Port and the Sqala of the Medina and the Bastion of Bab Marrakesh, the kasbah, Which was Originally the seat of power and the military garrison, and is now integrated Into the town proper, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), Which Retains Many Of icts original special features; the prison, Located on the offshore island (now a haven for unusual birds, Such as hawks); The Many mosques, in a characteristic style, and Especially the mosques of the Casbah and Ben Yosef, the synagogues (In Particular the 19th -century synagogue of Simon Attias) Which preserve the dynamism of the Jewish Inhabitants; the late 18th-century Portuguese church, the Dar-Sultan (old Royal Palace) and the very attractive private houses.
Source: UNESCO / CLT / WHC
Historical description

Archaeological excavations have revealed that the site of Essaouira was originally a Phoenician. Then came the Cretans, Greeks and Romans. Mogador, its old name, comes from the Phoenician word Migdol, meaning "fortress". In 1506 the city had become the seat of a Portuguese fortress but was abandoned shortly after.
The present city dates from 1765, years during which the Alawite Sultan Sidi Mohamed ben Abdallah decided to build a port in Morocco intended to provide an opening to the outside world while allowing the development of trade relations with Europe. He then requested the assistance of Theodore Cornut, engineer of military fortifications of Avignon who was strongly influenced by the fortifications of Vauban at Saint-Malo. It partially dismantles the Portuguese fortress in order to build the Scala, esplanade with a row of cannons. He organized the city checkerboard, with strong follow those of Roussillon, in the European tradition. The entire city was enclosed by a wall of Vauban style.
During the reign of Sidi Mohamed ben Abdallah, Mogador plays a significant commercial and tax. To control maritime trade, the Sultan farm south coast to European traders, forcing the European consulates in Safi, Agadir and Rabat to settle in Mogador, instead of concentration of all market activities in the south. The new port became one of the major ports and, to be the destination for caravans bringing African black a variety of loads (including slaves), it is called "port of Timbuktu".
The city is divided into three neighborhoods. Kasbah includes the old administrative district. Medina is built between the eighteenth century and early twentieth century. It is crossed by two main lines, one connecting Bab Doukkala port and the other starting from Bab Marrakech to reach the sea at their intersection, or Souk Jdid, are then installed four markets respectively devoted to fish, spices, grain and groceries. Each district is named after the tribes involved in building the city.
The Mellah Jewish quarter, played an important role in the history of the city because the Sultan used the Jewish community to build relationships with Europe and organize business activities. Jews were honored as Toujjar Es-Sultan (Merchant Royal), which conferred upon them of considerable economic and political privileges.

Medina of Marrakesh

Founded in 1070-1072 by the Almoravids (1056-1147), Marrakech was long a center of political, economic and cultural event of the Muslim West, ruling over North Africa and Andalusia. Of monuments dating from this period: the Koutoubiya Mosque, the Kasbah, the battlements, monumental doors, gardens, etc.. Later, the city will host other wonders, like the palace Bandia, the Ben Youssef Madrasa the Saadian Tombs, several great residences, etc.. Jemaa El Fna, a veritable open-air theater, always amazes visitors.
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Outstanding universal value

Brief summary
Founded in 1070-1072 by the Almoravids (1056-1147), capital of the Almohads (1147-1269), Marrakech was long a center of political, economic and cultural event of the Muslim West, ruling over North Africa and the Andalusia. Of monuments dating from this period: the Koutoubia Mosque whose incomparable 77-meter minaret, monument critical of Muslim architecture, is one of the great landmarks of the urban landscape and the very symbol of the city, the Casbah , ramparts, gates, and gardens. Later, the city will host other wonders, like the palace Badiâ, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia palace, and mansions. Jemaa El Fna square, inscribed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, is a veritable open-air theater which always amazes visitors. With its original design still preserved, its construction materials and decoration perpetually used and its natural environment (including the Gardens of Aguedal, the Menara and planting palm grove which is attributed to Almoravids) still protected, the Medina of Marrakesh has all its original components both cultural and natural giving it an outstanding universal value.

Criterion (i): Marrakech has an impressive number of masterpieces of architecture and art (ramparts and gates, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian tombs, palace ruins Badiâ, Bahia Palace, pool and pavilion of Menara) each of which could justify, by itself, a recognition of outstanding universal value.
Criterion (ii): The capital of the Almoravids and Almohads played a decisive role in the development of medieval urban planning. The capital of Merinids Fez Jadid (New), part of the medina of Fez, inscribed in 1981 on the World Heritage List, is an adaptation of previous city of Marrakech.
Criterion (iv): Marrakech, which gave its name to the empire of Morocco, is the perfect example of a major Islamic capital of the western Mediterranean.
Criterion (v): In the 700 hectares of the Medina, old housing, become vulnerable due to demographic change, represents, with its maze of narrow streets, its houses, its souks, its fondouks, his craft and commercial activities traditional, an outstanding example of living historic town.

Integrity (2009)
The delimitation of the property inscribed on the World Heritage List is properly defined by its original walls that contain all the attributes architectural and planning required for the expression of its outstanding universal value. A review of these limits is intended to better protect the environment of the property.
Integrity is nevertheless rendered vulnerable due to urban development pressures, uncontrolled alterations made to the elevations and building materials for houses, abandonment of khettaras (underground drainage) and the use of palm .

Authenticity (2009)
The ramparts, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Kasbah, the Saadian tombs, the ruined palace Badiâ, the pelvis and the Menara pavilion are examples of the many monuments that clearly reflect the property's Outstanding Universal Value. The authenticity of the urban structure internally and monuments has remained intact. It is provided by a skilled workforce performing restorations according to current standards. Reconstructions and rearrangements that occur within the historical center volume and generally respect the original style. The use of traditional materials in these restoration operations has greatly revived the craft trades related to construction (Zellige, coating tadallakt, carved and painted wood, plaster, metalwork, woodwork, etc..) In addition to business related furnishings and decoration.

Measures required for the protection and management (2009)
Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly Law 22-80 relating to the property. In addition to this legislation, each of the most important monuments of the Medina of Marrakech is protected by specific regulations. In addition to local services who act for the protection of the medina, the Regional Inspectorate of Historic Monuments and Sites (under the Ministry of Culture) with special responsibility for the management, restoration, maintenance and conservation of historic buildings on the one hand, and the other examining the applications for the construction and development and control of projects within the medina, is a guarantee for lasting protection of the site .
The Charter of the architectural Medina, developed by the Urban Agency of Marrakech in consultation with the Regional Inspectorate of Monuments and Sites, is a management tool that aims to safeguard the architectural, urban and landscape of the medina , by the introduction of a specific structure. An agreement for the implementation of this charter was signed November 11, 2008 between the partners involved.
Long Description

[English only]
The capital of the Almoravids Almohads and the decisive role has Played in the development of medieval planning. Marrakesh (Which Gave icts name to the Moroccan Empire) is the textbook example of a broader Islamic capital in the Western world. With maze of narrow streets icts, houses, souks (markets), traditional crafts and trade activities, and Its medina, this ancient settlement is outstanding example of a year vibrant historic city.
Marrakesh WAS Founded in 1071-72 by Youssef bin Tachfin on the site of the camp Where Abu Bakr HAD HIM left in charge. That from the point forward, no longer WAS Marrakesh year occasional stopping place for the Almoravids. It Became the true capital of These Conquering Nomads Who succeeded in Their empire stretching from the Sahara to the Ebro and from the Atlantic to Kabylia.
The original layout of the medina dates back to the Almoravid période from Which There still REMAIN: various monumental remains (ruins of the So-Called Abu Bakr Kasbah ben Youssef Mosque and Tachfin Ali ben Youssef Palace, not far from the Koutoubia, the pool and the 'Kubba' of Ali ben Youssef Mosque Which Were discovered in 1955, Bab Aylan gate, etc..). It is a year in fuel adaptation of the older urban model of Marrakesh.
The walls of the medina Were built in 1126-1127 FOLLOWING the order Given by Ali ibn Yusuf. The planting of the palm groves, Which still present at the surface of a cover area of ​​13.000 ha Roughly to the east of the city, HAS aussi beens Credited to the Almoravids. When in 1147 this dynasty bowed to the attacks of the Almohads led by Abdel Mou'men, the task of purification That Was Carried out fired, return not spare the monuments Which, for the MOST part, Were Destroyed by the victors. Nevertheless Marrakesh Remained the capital. Under the Almohad rulers (1147-1269), Marrakesh and New Experienced Unprecedented prosperity.
Between 1147 and 1158, Abd el Mou'men Had the Koutoubia Mosque built upon the ruins of the Almoravid foundations. Its unique minaret, key monument of Muslim architecture, is one of the major features of the cityscape and is the actual symbol of the city. The ruler's Successors, and Especially Abou Yacoub Youssef Yacoub el Mansour, Who Were the ones truly renovated the capital. THEY built new quarters, extended the city wall, fortified the Kasbah (1185-1190) Which was a prolongation of the city to the south with Its Own ramparts and gates (Bab Agnaou, Bab Robb), ict mosque, palace, market, hospital parade-ground and gardens. These leaders Strengthened Their Control over Their domains by planting crops (Menara to the west) and by civil engineering Achievements, the best of Which Are The Known Tensift Bridge and the kettara network in the palm groves.
The decline of Marrakesh, Which Began During The conquest of the city by the Merinids in 1269, Never Went Beyond the point of no return, as is illustrated by a number of non-negligible constructions (Ben Salih Mosque and minaret, not Long After 1321 ). The rebirth of the capital from under the Saadian rulers (1510-1669) led to a new blossoming of the arts, have bound out by the ruins of the El Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs, Whose precious architecture is isolated from the rest of the Kasbah by a wall. Some of the Elements making up thesis refined and sumptuous buildings cam from afar, Such as the marble columns from Carrara Which Montaigne Being Observed in Tuscany cut 'for the king of Morocco in Berberia'. Also dating back to the Saadian période is the restoration of the Ben Youssef Madrasa and the building of Several fountains decorated with gypsum work and woodwork (Mouassine, or Chrob Chouf and Bab Doukkala Fountains).
Under the reign of the Alawite dynasty, Marrakesh, the temporary capital, graced with a new WAS mosque, madrasas, palaces and residences harmoniously integrated Into the homogeneous unit of the old town, Which was Surrounded by 10 km of clay and lime-beaten and cob ramparts. Beyond the Walls Were the great traditional Areas of greenery: the palm groves, and the Menara, to the south, the Agdal Gardens That Were Redesigned by Moulay Abd er Rahman

Medina of Tetouan

Medina of Tetouan


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The medina of Tétouan was rebuilt by the end of the 15th century by refugees from the Reconquista (reconquest of Spain, completed by the fall of Granada in 1492), when the Andalusian Moors first reared the walls and then filled the enclosure with houses. The city is situated in the area of Morocco which was formerly ruled by Spain. It had a reputation for piracy at various times in its history. Tétouan has also been home of an important Sephardi Jewish community, which immigrated from Spain after the Reconquista and the Spanish Inquisition. The Jews lived in a mellah, separated from the rest of the town by gates which were closed at night.

Many of the houses belonging to aristocratic families, descendants of those expelled from Al-Andalus by the Spanish "Reconquista", possess marble fountains and have groves planted with orange trees. Within the houses the ceilings are often exquisitely carved and painted in hispano-moresque designs, such as are found in the Alhambra of Granada, and the tile-work for which Tetuan is known may be seen on floors, pillars and dados.

Medina of Tetouan (formerly known as Titawin)

Medina of Tetouan (formerly known as Titawin)


Tetouan was of particular importance in the Islamic period, from the eighth century, as the primary point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by returnees to this region after being expelled by the Spanish. This is visible in the architecture and art which reveal clear Andalusian influence. This is one of the smaller Moroccan medinas, but undoubtedly the most complete, which, subsequently, most buildings remained to outside influences.
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Jbel Dersa © Anassbarnichou2 More images ...
Outstanding universal value

Brief summary
The Medina of Tetouan has grown on the steep slopes of the Jebel Dersa. She had a particular importance in the Islamic period, from the eighth century, as the primary point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by returnees to this region after being expelled by the Spanish. This is visible in the architecture and art which reveal clear Andalusian influence. This is one of the smaller Moroccan medinas, but undoubtedly the most complete, which, subsequently, most buildings remained to outside influences.
The Medina of Tetouan is surrounded by a wall of history about 5 km long and access is through seven gates. The urban fabric is characterized by the main roads connecting doors giving access to each other and, on the one hand to open spaces (and small squares) and the monuments of collective interest such as fondouks, mosques, and zaouias areas for crafts and trade and, secondly, the secondary roads that lead to dead ends and residential blocks forming semi-private spaces. Real synthesis of Moroccan and Andalusian culture, the historic city of Tetouan has specific urban and architectural that influenced the architectural and artistic development at the time of the Spanish protectorate. The city of Tetouan is very famous for its School of Arts and Crafts (Dar Sanaa) and its National Institute of Fine Arts that reflect an ancient tradition and an openness to the world today.
Criterion (ii): The Medina of Tetouan reflects considerable influences of Andalusian civilization in late medieval times to the Muslim West. This is evident in the development of architecture, monumental arts and town-planning.
Criterion (iv): The Medina of Tetouan is a remarkable example of a fortified city on the Mediterranean coast, backed by a mountain landscape in northern Morocco. It shows an ancient occupation and during the Islamic period, it is of considerable importance, since it is the only passage between the Iberian peninsula and the interior of Morocco. Its rise from the early seventeenth century continued until the late eighteenth century and is reflected in its fortifications, its architecture, synthesis of Moroccan and Andalusian cultures, and its urban fabric.
Criterion (v): The strategic position of the Medina of Tetouan across the Strait of Gibraltar has played an important role as a junction point and transition between two civilizations (Spanish and Arabic) and two continents (Europe and North Africa).
Integrity (2009)
The property boundary includes all attributes that are necessary to express its outstanding universal value. Some attributes require conservation measures. The priority for conservation work is given to walls, doors and borjs (fortified watchtowers). The municipality is cooperating with the government of Andalusia (Spain) to perform rehabilitation work at the heart of the medina.
Authenticity (2009)
The authenticity of the medina is illustrated by its original urban fabric virtually intact and pregnant with its initial configuration, gates and fortifications. Their built in the eighteenth century and they still retain their shape and original materials. The medina has an original fabric that is characterized by the hierarchy of roads and the distribution of residential, commercial and backyard following a definite pattern. The real estate as a whole, as the zaouias, fountains, steam rooms, kilns, silos and historical, have kept their authenticity, whether in their shape, construction materials, and in their ornamentation or even, for some, in their function. The majority of homes are intact although some floors were added illegally and internal separations were performed.
Needs protection and management (2009)
Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly the law 22-80 (1981) on the Conservation of Moroccan heritage. There is a willingness and a strong belief among relevant departments, authorities and local associations to preserve and conserve the property. Responsibility for management and conservation is both the municipality, the planning department, local authorities and the Ministry of Culture. Being legally responsible for the conservation of cultural heritage in general, it directs and assists the various departments in their efforts for the preservation and conservation of the medina. The procedures and priorities are determined by the conservation recommendations and guidelines taken as part of the master plan study of the city of Tetouan. Development plans on regional and local medina are summarized in the Master of Tetouan, developed by the Department of Housing and Regional Planning in 1982, which gives great importance to the conservation and rehabilitation of the medina. The Spatial Development and Regional Planning from the northwestern region produced by the Regional Planning, Architecture and Planning in February 1996 has among its objectives, the obligation to retain and medina rehabilitation. The creation of the Regional Directorates of Culture since 2006 is in line with the establishment of an integrated conservation policy for local development policy. The development plan of the medina of Tetouan includes provisions for the conservation and management and takes into consideration the universal value of the site.
Long Description

[English only]
The Medina of Tetouan is year Exceptionally well-preserved example of full and this kind of historic town, displaying all the features of high Andalusian culture.
The origins of Tetouan are Not known, aim the discovery of archaeological sites, from prehistory and the classical period (Phoenician, Roman and Mauritanian-Punico) in the immediate surroundings of the town attest to the antiquity of the settlement of the valley in general Oued Martil and the site of Tetouan In Particular.
In the Islamic période the Tetouan Region Became very significant as the only connection Between the Iberian Peninsula and the interior of Morocco. As a result, a number of towns Grew up, Such as Ceuta, Tangier and Qasr es-Saghir. Tetouan is Mentioned by a number of Arab writers of the 10th-12th centuries, fired, return not aim it assumes significant role Until year the after the fall of Ceuta and Other centers on the coast to Spanish and Portuguese troops Towards the end of the Middle Ages.
A fortified garrison (Kasbah) HAD beens installed at the site of Tetouan by Sultan Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Marini in 1286 to block Ceuta. The town grew up in the early 14th century, goal WAS sacked and completely Call Destroyed by Spanish forces has century later. It Was rebuilt at the end of the 15th century by a group of Refugees from Andalusia During The Reign of Sultan Mohammed ash-Shaykh al-Wattassi. The late 15th-century town was small, the characteristics of, the present-day al-Balad quarter and a kasbah, built to the Requirements of Abu al-Hassan Ali al-Mandri, military leader of Banu al-Ahmar of Granada.
The second internship in ict development cam in the mid-16th century medina When The WAS extended to the south-west, the al-Rabat Asfal quarter. Finally, the arrival of the Moriscos (Spanish Muslims forcibly to Christianity and later her assets Expelled from Spain) from 1609 onwards led to a further Top expansion of the medina Towards the north-west. This Continued Until the mid-18th century, rebuilt Were When The fortifications, the medina to Give icts Existing Configuration.
Developed Tetouan on the stepped slopes of the Jabal Dersa. It Consists of Two quadrilaterals of more or less EQUAL size ALONGSIDE Each Other, Giving overalls year outline of a figure-of-eight.
The defensive walls are about 5 km long, with a number of Buttresses and defensive works on the exterior of the wall, Such as the bastions of Bab Bab al-Oqla and in-Nwader on the north and the star-shaped bastion at the north -east corner. Access is by means clustering of seven historic gates. Inside, the medina is crossed by the main streets linking gates with plans blew. These provide statement moyen de access to open spaces, to public buildings Such as the funduqs (inns), mosques and zawayas (religious speakers), and to the artisan and trading quarters. Lanes lead from the main streets to private residential quarters.
Source: UNESCO / CLT / WHC
Historical description

The origins of the city of Tetouan are still unknown, but the discovery of archaeological sites from prehistoric and classical times (Phoenician, Punic and Roman-Mauritania) in the immediate environment of the city testify to ancient occupation WLE Valley of the Oued Martil in general and the particular site of Tetouan.
During the Islamic period, the region of Tetouan is WLE considerable importance, since it is the only passage between the Iberian peninsula and the interior of Morocco. Several cities then come out of earth, like Ceuta, Tangier and Ksar-es-Saghir. Between the 10th and 12th centuries, Tetouan is mentioned by various Arab writers, but not until the late Middle Ages after the fall of Ceuta and other coastal centers in the hands of Spanish and Portuguese troops, to see the play an important role.
In 1286, Sultan Abu Youssef Yacoub el-Marini erected a fortified garrison (Casbah) on the site of Tetuan to Ceuta block. In the early 14th century, the city grows, it will be looted and completely destroyed by Spanish forces Wl century later. It was rebuilt at the close of the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Mohammed ash-Sheikh ei-Wattassi by Wis. group of refugees from Andalusia. At the end of the 15th century, the city is not very extensive: restricted to the current district of al-Balad and fortified kasbah Wie, she meets the requirements of Abu al-Hassan Ali elMandri, military leader of Banu ei-Ahmar of Granada.
The second phase of its development began in the mid-16th century, with the extension of the medina to the southwest (area of ​​Rabat did Asfal). Lastly, from 1609, the arrival of the Moriscos (Spanish Muslims forcibly converted to Christianity and later expelled from Spain) WLE contributes to further expansion of the Medina, to the northwest this time (district of Rabat al-Aala). This growth continues until the middle of the 18th century reconstruction of the fortifications which will give the medina its current configuration.