Walking Tour Tangier

Overview

A historical walking tour of Tangier, starting from Gran Socco, and ending in the new city over approximately three hours, would offer a vibrant journey through culture, history, and art. Here’s a descriptive itinerary:

1. Start at Gran Socco (Big Square): Your tour begins at the lively Gran Socco, a bustling market square that marks the transition between the new city and the medina (old town). It’s a place filled with color and life, where locals and tourists alike gather, and vendors sell fruits, vegetables, and an array of goods. The square is also home to the Cinema Rif, adding a modern cultural twist to the historic setting.

2. Walk to the Kasbah: From Gran Socco, navigate the winding streets towards the Kasbah, the high point of the city. This area, with its fortified walls, offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city below. The Kasbah was once the place of sultans and now houses the Kasbah Museum, worth a visit for its displays of Moroccan art and artifacts.

3. Explore Ibn Battuta’s Tomb: Within the Kasbah, seek out the tomb of Ibn Battuta, the great Moroccan explorer born in Tangier in 1304. Though the exact location of his tomb is a bit of a mystery and less frequented by tourists, paying homage to one of the world’s greatest travelers in his hometown is a unique experience.

4. Follow an Itinerary of Matisse: Henri Matisse, the renowned French artist, was captivated by the light and landscapes of Tangier, and he spent significant time here in 1912 and 1913. Follow in his footsteps by visiting places he painted, like the view from the window of his room in the Grand Hotel Villa de France, capturing the unique light and vibrant colors of Tangier that inspired some of his most famous works.

5. Descend to Petit Socco: Moving on, head down to Petit Socco, a smaller square that once was the heart of Tangier’s international zone. This area, known for its cafes and lively atmosphere, was a meeting place for writers, spies, and artists during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it retains its historic charm with traditional tea houses and cafes, inviting you to pause and soak in the ambiance.

6. Visit the American Legation: A short walk from Petit Socco is the American Legation, a building symbolizing the long-standing Moroccan-American friendship. Established in 1821, it was the first American public property outside the United States and now serves as a museum and cultural center. The museum showcases Moroccan art, historical documents, and exhibits on American diplomatic history in Morocco.

7. Cinema Rif: Return to the starting point near Gran Socco to visit Cinema Rif, at the edge of the medina. This cinema is dedicated to independent films and is a hub for cultural activities in Tangier. It’s a great place to catch a film or explore the ongoing events that contribute to the city’s vibrant arts scene.

8. Stroll through the New City: Finally, venture into the Ville Nouvelle (New City), where modernity meets tradition. Here, you’ll find a blend of Moroccan and international influences, with wide boulevards lined with shops, galleries, and cafes. Explore contemporary art galleries showcasing both local and international artists, offering insight into the evolving art scene in Tangier.

9. Great Cafes and Galleries in the New City: As you explore the New City, don’t miss the chance to visit some of its renowned cafes and galleries. Café Hafa, overlooking the Bay of Tangier, is an iconic spot for a mint tea, offering the same views that have inspired generations of artists and writers. For art enthusiasts, the Galerie Conil is a must-visit, known for its exhibitions of Moroccan and European artists. The vibrant café culture here, with places like Café de Paris and Le Grand Café de Paris, provides a perfect setting to relax after your tour.

This walking tour, blending the historical depths and artistic vibrancy of Tangier, offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the ancient streets of the medina to the cosmopolitan flair of the new city. It’s a journey through time, culture, and art, encapsulating the essence of Tangier in three hours.