Tangier , Morroco

Tangier is the street corner where Europe meets Africa; where the Atlantic washes into the Mediterranean and where an intersection of Islam and Christendom comes together. Tangier, known as the gateway to the African continent, looks across at Europe from the shores of Atlantic and Mediterranean alike. At this important crossroads of civilization, Tangier has a magnificent, scenic bay that flaunts below its lush green hills and ancient avenues. As a meeting-point of trading and commerce routes to so many different destinations, Tangier has been indelibly marked by history with its sovereignty often in dispute. As any hustler will tell you, the Medina, old town, is Tangier’s most interesting sight. Tangier’s medina is a maze of narrow streets on the hillside above the harbour. Rue es-Siaghin leads downhill from the Grand Socco to the Petit Socco; side streets to the right are filled with shops. The main street of medina leads to Kasbah, the former Sultan's palace and the highest point in the medina. It provides excellent views of the ocean and the city. The gate opens onto a large courtyard, which leads to the Dar el-Makhzem Palace and the modern-day Kasbah Museum. The palace was built in the 17th century and enlarged by each reigning sultan. The carved wooden ceilings and marble courtyard showcase the intricacies of Moroccan craft-work. Tangier's Ville Nouvelle is a must for fans of late 19th and early 20th century architecture as it features many fine buildings from this time period. Here you'll find the Terrasse des Paresseux where you can look out at the spectacular ocean view that has captivated so many European artists. With the harbour before you, look across the water for the hazy silhouettes of Gibraltar and southern Spain in the distance Tangier does not leave you indifferent, you hate it or you love it, there is no middle feelings on it, you promise not to go back again or you get addicted to it. But if you stay there and try to acclimatise to its rhythm you will fall in love with its beauty. However, one thing is for sure, Tangier is one of the most vibrant cities in Morocco.