DAY EXCURSION TO TETOUAN

Tetouan is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site since 1997. It is a charming Hispano-Moresque town, situated about 60 km east of Tangier in the far north of the Rif Mountains.

A visit to Tetouan must include the old town and its unique network of shaded alleyways. The Medina houses numerous palaces, mosques and fountains. In fact, many of the houses belonging to aristocratic families, descendants of those expelled from Al-Andalus by the Spanish Reconquista, have courtyards, marble fountains and groves. Within the houses the ceilings are often carved and painted in hispano-moresque designs, and the tile-work for which Tetouan is known may be seen on floors, pillars and dados.

The Royal Palace, which is a remarkable example of Moorish architecture  is situated just outside and by one of the entrances to the medina.

We will also visit the Jewish quarter Mellah, once called Little Jerusalem because of its importance.  Tetouan has been home to an important sephardi Jewish community, which immigrated from Spain afterr the Reconquista and the Spanish Inquisition.

The Souks (market place) are a major attraction for both locals and tourists. Everywhere in the city there are people performing their craftsmanship, like weavers, jewellers, leather workers. Here the souks are well separated, each trade occupying a precise perimeter. For example Tarafin street, lined with jewellery shops.

Also included in the tour, The Moroccan Arts Museum exhibiting traditional costumes and regional musical instruments. Close to this museum, the Trade School teaches all craft specialisations.