 Agadir
Agadir is unlike any other Moroccan city, a result of the 1960
earthquake which effectively destroyed the entirety of the city. It
was the most destructive and deadliest earthquake in the history of
Morocco measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale, killing one third of the
Agadir’s population and leaving 35,000 people homeless. Two days
after the earthquake, which occurred on the evening of February
29th, the whole city was evacuated to prevent the spread of disease.
The city was then completely rebuilt 3km south of its original
location. Although Agadir does not have the charm of traditional
Moroccan towns, thanks to its long beach, wide open spaces
and modernity it is the country’s second
touristic destination after Marrakesh.
Kasbah
At an altitude of 236m (775ft), the hilltop ruins of the Kasbah,
within restored ramparts, offer a stunning view of Agadir and its
bay. Built by Mohammed Ech Cheikh in 1540 to keep the Portuguese
fortress under surveillance, it was restored in 1752 by Moulay
Abdallah and accommodated
a garrison of renegade Christians and
Turkish mercenaries.
Beach
South of the city in a bay with 9km (6miles) of fine sand, is
Agadir’s main attraction, the sheltered beach. It offers one of the
safest swimming of Morocco’s Atlantic coast. The city enjoys 300
days of sunshine a year, making this an ideal destination for
holidaymakers. Many cafés, hotels and restaurants line the beach,
where you can rent sailboards, jet-skis, water scooters
or enjoy a ride on horses or camels.
Port
Located on the edge of the city, the port consists of a large
complex with about 20 canning and freezing factories where the
produce of the sea is processed. As Morocco’s foremost fishing port,
an auction takes place every afternoon in the fish market. Agadir
also exports citrus fruit, fresh vegetables, canned food and ore.
Nouveau Talborj
Agadir’s modern centre, the Nouveau Talborj, was built south to the
old city. The main streets of the city centre run parallel to the
beach. Pedestrian areas, lined with restaurants, shops and crafts
outlets are concentrated around Boulevard Hassan II and Avenue du
Prince Moulay Abdallah. There are some fine modern buildings,
including the post office, the town hall and the stately law courts.
The city’s bright white buildings are interspersed by many gardens.
Weather:
Winter temperature = average 15 °C Summer temperature = average 25
°C
High humidity level, very few rain throughout the year
Festivals:
Timitar Festival of Berber and World Music July
Official website of the festival:
http://www.festivaltimitar.ma/ |
