Medina of Marrakesh

Medina of Marrakesh

Founded in 1070–72 by the Almoravids, Marrakesh remained a political, economic and cultural centre for a long period. Its influence was felt throughout the western Muslim world, from North Africa to Andalusia. It has several impressive monuments dating from that period: the Koutoubiya Mosque, the Kasbah, the battlements, monumental doors, gardens, etc. Later architectural jewels include the Bandiâ Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Saadian Tombs, several great residences and Place Jamaâ El Fna, a veritable open-air theatre.

Morocco

Province of Marrakesh

N31 37 53.004 W7 59 12.012

Date of Inscription: 1985

Criteria: (i)(ii)(iv)(v)

Property : 1,107 ha

Ref: 331

Source: http://whc.unesco.org

Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin)

Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin)

Tétouan was of particular importance in the Islamic period, from the 8th century onwards, since it served as the main point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by Andalusian refugees who had been expelled by the Spanish. This is well illustrated by its art and architecture, which reveal clear Andalusian influence. Although one of the smallest of the Moroccan medinas, Tétouan is unquestionably the most complete and it has been largely untouched by subsequent outside influences.

 Morocco

Region Nord-Ouest, Wilaya de Tétouan, Province of Tétouan, Medina of Tétouan

N35 34 14.988 W5 22 0.012

Date of Inscription: 1997

Criteria: (ii)(iv)(v)

Property : 6.50 ha 

Ref: 837

Source: http://whc.unesco.org

Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)

Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)

Essaouira is an exceptional example of a late-18th-century fortified town, built according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture in a North African context. Since its foundation, it has been a major international trading seaport, linking Morocco and its Saharan hinterland with Europe and the rest of the world.

 Morocco

Province of Essaouira, Tensift Region

N31 31 0.012 W9 46 9.984

Date of Inscription: 2001

Criteria: (ii)(iv)

Property : 30 ha 

Buffer zone: 15 ha

Ref: 753rev

Source: http://whc.unesco.org