Safi

As well as the more famous resort of Essaouira why not also explore beautiful Safi - famous in Morocco and around the world for the quality of its ceramic pottery.

A tour of Safi starts at the Ksar El Bahr (Castle of the Sea); this square bastion was built  in the 16th century by the Portuguese, whose presence would last for 50 years. Passing the ramparts, enter the medina by Souk street which, along with the Place de l’Indépendance, is the liveliest place in the city as all the craft trades are represented here. Level with the Great Mosque a path leads to the Portuguese Chapel; this was constructed in 1519 at the centre of the chancel of the old cathedral.

At the end of the Rue des Forgerons, the potters' quarter occupies the hill to the left; its land contains an exceptional clay which is the origin of Safi's pottery reputation. A visit to the cooperative's school allows you to follow the various production stages of pottery. To find out more, don't miss the Kechla - this massive Portuguese fortress with crenellated towers offers a fine view over the city and the sea and through a monumental gateway onto the méchouar (square) you will arrive at the buildings housing the National Ceramics Museum. Ceramics were introduced by a potter from Fez in 1875; they stand out due to their blue colour and the highly sought-after pieces of all shapes and sizes.

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