Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen, the blue city in Morocco’s Rif Mountains

Chefchaouen is one of Morocco’s most distinctive towns, situated in the north of the country among the Rif Mountains. It is best known for the blue and pale-blue colours covering walls, doors, stairways and narrow lanes throughout its historic medina.

The town was founded in 1471 and subsequently grew with the arrival of Muslim and Jewish communities from the Iberian Peninsula. This history contributed to a cultural heritage combining Moroccan and Andalusian influences.

Compared with Morocco’s large imperial cities, Chefchaouen is relatively compact and has a more intimate atmosphere. Its medina climbs the mountainside through a network of narrow streets, stairways, small squares and traditional houses.

What to see in Chefchaouen

The centre of the town is Outa el Hammam Square, lined with cafés and restaurants and dominated by the reddish walls of the Kasbah. Built between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, the fortress now contains a museum and a peaceful garden.

From the square, visitors can explore the medina, famous for houses painted in countless shades of blue. Rather than following a strict itinerary, one of the pleasures of Chefchaouen is simply wandering through its lanes, discovering decorated doorways, craft shops and small courtyards.

On the eastern side of the medina is Ras el Maa, a spring where water flowing down from the mountains reaches the town. The area is also popular with local residents and provides a pleasant stop before continuing towards the surrounding hills.

One of the finest views of Chefchaouen can be enjoyed from the Spanish Mosque, positioned on a hillside outside the medina. The short walk provides panoramic views over the blue town, particularly around sunset.

The surrounding Rif Mountains also make Chefchaouen a useful base for hiking and exploring the countryside of northern Morocco.

When to visit Chefchaouen

Spring and autumn generally provide comfortable temperatures for exploring the medina and surrounding countryside. Summer can be hot, while winter temperatures are considerably cooler, especially at night.