Larache, Morocco
Region: Larache is located in the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region of Morocco
Geographic Coordinates: 35.183300, -6.150000
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 30.0°C (50°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 125008
Language: Arabic
Larache is a lovely coastal city situated in the northern region of Morocco, On the Atlantic Ocean. Its history dates back to ancient times when it was a significant Phoenician trading post, And it has since been under Roman and Arab rule, Contributing to its cultural diversity and architectural heritage. The city’s beautiful beaches are one of its main attractions, Offering stunning views of the ocean for swimming, Sunbathing or surfing. Plage de la Corniche is the most popular beach that stretches over 7 km along the coast with golden sand dunes backed by lush greenery.
Larache’s historic medina (old town) features traditional Moroccan architecture with narrow alleys lined with white-washed buildings adorned with colorful tiles and intricate mosaics. Visitors can explore various souks (markets) selling everything from spices to handmade crafts. The Kasbah Museum is another highlight of Larache’s old town. This 17th-century fortress-turned-museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts showcasing the city’s rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Visitors can see exhibits on pottery making, Weaving, Jewelry making as well as displays on local wildlife such as snakes and birds.
For those interested in nature and wildlife, Parc National de Talassemtane offers breathtaking views of mountains covered in thick forests filled with diverse flora and fauna including Barbary macaques – a species only found in this area. Larache also boasts a vibrant culinary scene where visitors can indulge their taste buds with delicious Moroccan cuisine including tagines (slow-cooked stews), Couscous dishes served with vegetables or meat as well as fresh seafood caught daily from nearby waters.
Overall, Larache offers visitors a unique blend of culture, History, Nature and relaxation making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
- The Kasbah of Larache
- The Roman Ruins of Lixus
- The Port of Larache
- The Plaza de España
- The Medina (Old Town)
- Sainte Anne Church
- El Kharrazine Beach
- Moulay Bousselham Lagoon
- Bab el Khemis Gate
- Dar Al-Makhzen Museum
- Larache, Morocco is primarily an agricultural region with a focus on the production of:
- Citrus fruits
- Olives
- Cereals
- Fishing is also an important industry in the area due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Additionally, there are small businesses and industries related to tourism such as:
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Souvenir shops
- The city also has a small industrial zone that produces:
- Textiles
- Construction materials
- The city was founded by the Phoenicians in the 5th century BC and later became an important Roman port.
- In 1471, the Portuguese captured Larache and established a fortress there.
- In 1610, the city was taken by the Moroccan ruler Moulay Zidan.
- During World War II, Larache was occupied by Spanish forces from 1936 to 1956.
- Notable people associated with Larache include Ibn Battuta (a famous Moroccan explorer), Abdelkrim El Khattabi (a leader of the Rif War), and Mohamed Choukri (a writer).
- The city is also known for its historic medina (old town) and its beaches, which attract tourists from around the world.
- The Archaeological Museum of Larache
- The Spanish Garden
- Asilah Medina
- Moulay Abdessalam Mosque
- Dar El Makhzen Palace
- Lixus Ruins
- The Grand Mosque of Larache
- Dar Al-Makhzen Museum
- Port of Larache
- Plaza de Espana (Spain Square)
- Moussem of Moulay Abdessalam Ben Mchich Alami: This annual festival is held in honor of the patron saint of Larache, Moulay Abdessalam Ben Mchich Alami. It takes place in late August and includes traditional music, dance, and a procession.
- Festival des Arts Populaires: This festival celebrates Moroccan culture through traditional music, dance, and art. It usually takes place in July or August.
- International Festival of Ibn Battuta: This festival honors the famous Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta and includes cultural events such as exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and film screenings. It usually takes place in November.
- National Day of Resistance: Celebrated on November 6th every year to commemorate Morocco’s struggle for independence from France.
- Eid al-Fitr: This Muslim holiday marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with feasts and family gatherings.
- Eid al-Adha: Another Muslim holiday that commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God’s sake.
- The Larache Book Fair: An annual event that promotes reading by showcasing books from local authors as well as international ones.
- Tagine: a traditional Moroccan dish cooked in a clay pot with meat or vegetables and spices.
- Couscous: a North African dish made of steamed semolina grains served with vegetables, meat, or fish.
- Harira: a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices.
- Seafood dishes: Larache is known for its fresh seafood such as grilled sardines, fried calamari, and shrimp pil-pil.
- Restaurant Al Andalous: This restaurant serves traditional Moroccan cuisine including tagines and couscous.
- Restaurant El Kharrazin: This restaurant specializes in seafood dishes like fried calamari and shrimp pil-pil.
- Café de Paris Larache: A popular café serving coffee, tea, pastries as well as light meals like sandwiches and salads.
- Restaurant Le Pirate: This restaurant has an outdoor terrace overlooking the sea where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
- Parc Al Mansour is a beautiful public park that features a scenic lake, well-maintained gardens, and fun playgrounds for children to enjoy.
- La Plage des Oueds is a stunning beach located on the outskirts of Larache, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to swim and sunbathe in picturesque surroundings.
- Jardin de la Liberation is a peaceful garden situated in the heart of Larache, complete with calming fountains and comfortable benches where you can relax and unwind.
- Dar El Makhzen Museum is an interesting cultural institution that showcases traditional Moroccan art and artifacts for visitors to explore.
- Horseback riding tours through the countryside are available from several stables around Larache, providing an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
- Fishing enthusiasts will love visiting Oued Loukos river nearby, which offers excellent opportunities to catch freshwater fish such as trout.
- Surfing lessons are also available near Larache thanks to its proximity to some of Morocco’s best surf spots along the Atlantic coast – whether you’re a beginner or experienced surfer there’s something for everyone here!
- For those who enjoy golfing, Royal Golf Club Dar Es Salam in Rabat is just 90 minutes away from Larache by car or train – making it an easily accessible destination for avid golfers looking for new challenges on their next trip!
