The Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures in Tangier is housed within the historic Kasbah, a former palace that served as the residence of the Moroccan Sultan. This museum offers a fascinating journey through the region's rich history, from ancient times to the present day.
Kasbah Gate in Tangier
A kasbah is a type of fortress or fortified area typically found in North African cities, especially in Morocco. Historically, it served as a defensive stronghold for rulers, nobility, or tribal leaders and was often built on a high point to oversee the surrounding area.
The Kasbah Museum is located next to the Kasbah Square, in the quarter that bears the same name. This ancient citadel occupies the highest part of Tangier's medina. A prime spot in the Kasbah, i.e. the fortified area or citadel, was chosen for its location.
What was so special about this location? Above all, the views, as it’s located in the highest part of the city, offering the best panoramic views of the medina and also of the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic and the Mediterranean meet.
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Historical Significance
The Kasbah Palace, also known as Dar al-Makhzen, Sultan's Palace or Governor's Palace and formerly as the Sharifian Palace, is a historical building and museum in the Kasbah or citadel of Tangier, Morocco. Its site has long been the main seat of political power in Tangier.
The current structure was built in the early 18th century as the residence of the city's governor and home for the Sultan of Morocco when staying in the city, for example Hassan I in 1889. An inscription in the interior attributes the current structure to Pasha Ahmed Ben Ali al-Rifi in 1151 AH (1737). It was built by Pasha Ahmed Ben Ali Rifi, the son of the general who liberated the city (Ahmad al-Rifi). You might recognise the name because it was he who expelled the English from Tangier.
Restorations were carried out in 1889 when Hassan I visited Tangier after making it the diplomatic capital, and the residence of European diplomats. In 1922 the main palace became a museum, a function that continues today. In recent years the complex what again renovated, reopening to the public in 2016.
The building is situated in the eastern part of the Kasbah, on one of the highest points of the city overlooking the medina and the Strait of Gibraltar. It is centered within two courtyards, which are decorated with wooden ceilings, marble fountains and arabesques. The elegant marble capitals of the columns in the main courtyard were most likely imported from Italy at the time of construction in the mid-18th century.
Architectural Features
We Survived Tangier, Morocco
Visiting the museum will allow you to cross the threshold of a building with a white, crenellated façade, seemingly lacking in elegance, to discover its two courtyards with fountains and an Andalusian garden, which is slightly more hidden away.
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The main residence consists of 7 rooms and a protico arranged around a central courtyard with zelij flooring and a marble fountain in the center. The columns were produced in Italy. The two main rooms off the courtyard have domed ceilings carved with muqarnas. The walls are decorated with mosaics and carved stucco.
Dependencies facing the Kasbah's Mechouar include a former Bayt al-mal or treasury, created in the late 18th century, and prisons.
Courtyard with zelij flooring and a marble fountain
Museum Collections
Visitors can explore a diverse collection of artifacts, antiques, and statues that narrate the story of Tangier and its cultural influences. The museum's layout is designed to present this history chronologically, making it easier for visitors to follow the timeline of events and developments in the area.
The former reception spaces and living quarters are now used by the Museum of Mediterranean Cultures (Musée des Cultures Méditerranéennes), displaying works of art from all over Morocco, amongst which are firearms decorated with marquetry, carpets, silks from Fez, and manuscripts. The Museum of Antiquities now occupies the former kitchen.
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Museum of Mediterranean Cultures
One of the most remarkable exhibits is the display of ancient maps, some of which are considered among the oldest in the world. These maps provide a unique perspective on historical cartography and the understanding of the world centuries ago.
In addition to admiring the beautiful architecture of the Dar el Makhzen palace, with its coffered ceilings, courtyards, fountains and ornate rooms, you also have the opportunity at the Kasbah Museum in Tangier to see a fine display of craftsmanship that reflects the different cultures that have passed through the city.
And if you’re a lover of art and crafts, here you’ll be able to appreciate the work of artists from different periods in the form of jewellery, leather goods, textiles, carpets, manuscripts and objects made from silk.
Some of the most eye-catching exhibits are a mosaic of Venus from the Roman city of Volubilis, and a giant map. Don’t miss the Andalusian garden.
Visiting the Kasbah Museum
The Kasbah Museum is situated in the heart of Tangier’s historic Kasbah district, at Place de la Kasbah, Tangier 90030, Morocco. To reach the museum, you can enter the Kasbah through the Bab Kasbah gate and follow the winding paths leading up to the palace.
The Kasbah Museum can be visited independently, by buying your ticket and visiting the rooms open to the public. The explanatory signs are in French and Arabic, so if you don’t speak either of these languages, download an app that translates them directly for you.
Practical Information
Here is some practical information for planning your visit:
- Admission: 30 MAD (≈ US $3) for adults; 5 MAD for children / school groups. One ticket also covers the adjoining Contemporary Art space.
- Opening Hours: Check before you visit as opening hours may vary throughout the year.
- Accessibility: The historic nature of the Kasbah and museum may present some accessibility challenges. While the gardens are pleasant, navigating older structures might be difficult for those with mobility concerns.
Tips for Visitors
To avoid the midday sun and peak crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Many visitors suggest spending about an hour here, so plan accordingly. Check opening hours, as they can vary.
Wandering through the narrow streets of the Kasbah is part of the experience. Taxis are the most common and convenient way to reach the vicinity of the Kasbah Museum.
While the museum is reasonably priced, descriptions are primarily in French and Arabic. Consider downloading a translation app or hiring a guide to fully appreciate the historical artifacts and the oldest maps on display.
Wear comfy shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking through the Kasbah and museum.
The Kasbah offers stunning panoramic views of Tangier city and the Strait of Gibraltar, making it a great spot for photos.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting the Kasbah Museum, take the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions:
- Medina: The top attraction of Tangier, is a labyrinth of alleyways both commercial and residential. It's contained by the walls of a 15th-century.
- Grand Socco: The romantic entrance to the medina, a large, sloping, palm-ringed plaza with a central fountain.
- Tangier American Legation Museum: This museum, in an elegant five-storey mansion, is a must-see: Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States.
- Mendoubia Gardens: This large park is full of strolling couples and children playing football. The Mendoubia Gardens are flanked by an elegant line of colonial buildings.
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