Quality of life in Essaouira

History and Culture

Essaouira's history dates back to the 7th century BC when it was first settled by the Phoenicians. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Portuguese, and French, each leaving a distinct mark on the city's architecture and culture.

In the 18th century, Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah established Essaouira as a major port city, attracting traders from Europe and Africa. This period marked the beginning of Essaouira's cultural renaissance, as it became a melting pot of different cultures and traditions.

Essaouira is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly the Gnaoua music, which is celebrated annually at the Gnaoua World Music Festival. The city's art galleries and workshops showcase the talents of local and international artists, contributing to its reputation as a hub for creativity.

The city's medina, with its narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, is a testament to its rich history and cultural diversity. Essaouira's ethnic diversity is reflected in its cuisine, which combines Berber, Arab, and French influences, offering a unique culinary experience.

Things to do in Essaouira

Visitors to Essaouira can explore the historic medina, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries. The Skala de la Ville, a fortified sea wall, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

The city's beaches are ideal for water sports, with windsurfing and kitesurfing being particularly popular due to the strong coastal winds. For those interested in history, the Essaouira Citadel and the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum provide insights into the city's past.

Essaouira hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Gnaoua World Music Festival, which attracts musicians and visitors from around the globe. The city's vibrant arts scene is also evident in its numerous galleries and workshops, where visitors can purchase unique artworks and crafts.

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Morocco reflect how livable a city in Morocco is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

1. Casablanca

Morocco

Essaouira's Political Climate

Essaouira, a coastal city in Morocco, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Politically, the city is influenced by the broader national political landscape of Morocco, which is a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament. The King of Morocco holds significant power, but there is also a Prime Minister and a bicameral parliament that handle legislative duties.

The political climate in Essaouira is shaped by its historical significance and its role as a cultural hub. The city has been a melting pot of various cultures, which is reflected in its political discourse. Local governance is typically aligned with the national government's policies, focusing on tourism, cultural preservation, and economic development. The city has seen efforts to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, aligning with Morocco's national goals of renewable energy and sustainability.

In recent years, Essaouira has witnessed increased political engagement from its residents, particularly in areas concerning cultural heritage preservation and environmental issues. The city has been part of national initiatives to improve infrastructure and boost economic opportunities, which are key issues for local political leaders.

Political Quick Facts