Essaouira is a port city on the Atlantic coast in western Morocco, northern Africa.
As an author, I hunt for interesting locales. I’ve cited Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA in a previous blog and this is Part One on Essaouira, Morocco, Northern Africa. Roses were in bloom the March I travelled there.
Why Essaouira, Morocco, Northern Africa?
Essaouira is an ancient port in western Morocco located on the Atlantic coast. Approximately 350 km south of Casablanca, the city is partially enclosed by late 18th century fortified walls. With a current population around 75,000 including 25,000 living within the medina (old town), the area is renowned for surfing and beaches. This is also the sole spot in the world where Argan trees thrive.
The beaches of Sidi Kaouki, 25 km south of Essaouira, are world famous for surfing.
Major economic activities include: argan oil production, tourism and craft businesses such as silver and woodworking. The Medina of Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Travel and Writing
I value authenticity and travelling is integral to my writing. My historical fiction, The Inheritance is set in Calabria, southern Italy from 1897 to 1913 and I explored the region to research this book.
Whenever I journey anywhere, I open my heart and mind to possibilities. I spent time in Essaouria on a trip throughout Morocco and imagine it as a locale for a future project.
Here are some of my photos. I hope they convey why I feel Essaouria is a place awaiting a story.
What places have gripped your imagination? I welcome your comments.
800 year old Argan tree.
Unique to the area are goats that climb the Argan trees.
Women apprentices learning silver craftsmanship.
