There is nothing more exciting that getting lost in a new place, one that is steeped in history and mystery. Travellers to Tangier Morocco, will be excited to learn about the oldest part of the city. Getting lost in the exotic Medina in Tangier is an onslaught for the senses and one not soon forgotten.
Brief History
The Medina is the oldest part of Tangier. There has been a settlement here since the Phoenician’s and later the Romans who had named the city Tingis. During the 15th century, the Portuguese constructed walls around the Medina in order to defend against raiders. Its within these walls that we explore today, for this is the Medina.
Streets
Follow these narrow alleys and easily become lost in the labyrinth that is the Medina. Originally this area was all painted a gorgeous bright blue, which can still be seen in a few of the streets today.
Currently, most of the Medina is a stark white, and against the azure sky and sea, is bright enough to let light down to the cobblestone lanes. Some of my favourite streets are those where I can see the beautiful iron balconies soaring above me. When the bougainvillea cascades over the top, the vista is a glorious one indeed.
In the evenings food vendors flood the streets and all sorts of delicious treats are available for purchase. I was given a piece of caliente to try, purchased by a proud local who saw me eyeing the interesting food. This kind gent, bought me a small piece. Made of chickpea flour, eggs and oil, and piping hot, it was an interesting and unique food.
Doors
An all time favourite subject to capture is doors (and windows). Everywhere I visit, I always end up with a camera roll full of door photos. Never has this been so apparent as here in the Medina. Have a look at these beauties.
The old wooden ones are a favourite and their original hardware adds such charm.
Again, that bright blue is showing its preference around the Medina, when it comes to doors and windows. I don’t know what It is about that colour, but I adore the vibrancy and happiness is exudes. Did you know that all through the 1900’s, famous painters and artists flocked to Tangier to immerse themselves in this exotic beauty?
Handicrafts
There are a few streets inside the Medina that have been specifically kept true to their purpose. Here visitors can see the tailors creating the clothing worn by the locals in real time. These old machines separating the treads are fascinating to watch in action and hear the clacking of the chain in motion.
In another area, see women weaving beautiful blankets and rugs. The old-fashioned hand-woven crafts are being kept alive in this manner. What a treasure that these skills are maintained. Visitors can take home a truly unique and artisanal souvenir from Tangier.
The Socco’s
The Medina is home to the Grand and Petit Socco, these are souks or market places. I will create an entire post on these as there is too much to say and see as a single paragraph. What I will let you in on is this. You are in for a treat, and every sense in your body will be singing with what you witness in these places.
The Medina in Tangier is nothing short of an exotic land. Climb narrow stone staircases, watch tall slender palms swaying in the breeze. See children playing soccer and carrying around pet turtles. Watch as the locals go about their daily tasks in a friendly and lively manner. Fellow travellers, this is a unique destination to catch a glimpse into the past.
