Chefchaouen, Morocco Travel Guide: The Blue City, History, Things to Do & Shopping

Chefchaouen Morocco travel guide, Morocco Blue City, things to do in Chefchaouen, Chefchaouen history, artisan shopping and culture in Morocco

Chefchaouen

History:

For as long as I can remember, I hoped to visit Chefchaouen in Africa. Chefchaouen, Morocco's "Blue City," is renowned for its blue-washed buildings in the Rif Mountains, and for its stunning, photogenic medina (old town) with steep, cobbled lanes, leather and weaving workshops, and the red-walled Kasbah in the main square, Place Outa El Hammam. Founded in 1471, the city's blue hue is often attributed to Jewish refugees who made a pilgrimage to Chefchaouen, painting buildings that symbolized the sky and God. It provides a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy various attractions such as hiking trails in the Rif Mountains.

See:

Communal ovens are a wonderful and unique attraction in Chefchaouen. Locals bring their dough, which is carefully baked in ovens for them to take home. This is an arduous job for the baker who often stands on their feet for many hours a day in a warm space. We can only hope that this artisan craft continues on for many more years, passed down through generations of families.

Wander through the Blue City, where every street is awash in varying shades of blue; it is truly a delight for the eyes!

Visit the Kasbah’s 15th-century fortress located in the main square, Place Outa el Hamman. Stroll through the RAs El Ma, where locals gather to do laundry in the natural cold spring.

Continue up to the mosque perched on the hilltop with views of Chefchaouen.

Sip & Savor:

We dined on classic Moroccan cuisine with a beautiful view of the RIF Mountains and glorious blue city.

Shop:

Chefchaouen is filled with treasures and artisan crafts. Beautiful Berber rugs are on full display throughout Chefchaouen. Berber women, originally from the RIF Mountains, are skilled in creating these bespoke rugs, leather goods, woven textiles, and carpets. Berber women are known to be camera-shy, so always ask first before taking a photo.

Bridal Dresses:

The Chedda Chamalia are opulent, and ornate traditional bridal outfits from the Northern Moroccan regions of Chefchaouen, Tangier, and Tetouan. Overlays of fabrics featuring “El Bhaja” embroidery are often worn with heavy gold jewelry.