Medina

Top choice in Larache


Entered through the Bab Al Khemis, an imposing Hispano-Moorish structure, Larache's blue-and-white medina has changed little over the years. Mostly residential, it's arranged around the Zoco de la Alcaiceria, a colonnaded marketplace, where fresh produce and household goods are sold from open-fronted stores, wooden carts or straight off the cobbles. To the north is a maze of narrow lanes leading to the ruined Saadian Fortress. South, up the hill, is the handsome Music Conservatory and a scenic lookout.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Larache attractions

1. Galerie Lafnar

0.03 MILES

In an interesting old funduq (ancient inn used by caravans), this art gallery sells work by local artists, as well as staging occasional exhibitions. Just…

2. Place de la Libération

0.05 MILES

Built by the Spanish, who called it Plaza de España (some locals still do), this grand oval-shaped plaza is the town's focal point. Decorated with palm…

3. Music Conservatory

0.16 MILES

A wonderful example of Hispano-Moorish architecture, the town's crenellated music conservatory features ornately decorated balconies, zellige (colourful…

4. Lookout

0.19 MILES

With stunning views over the port and estuary, this lookout is a popular meeting spot. On the way you'll pass the crumbling 17th-century fortification…

5. Ras R'mel Beach

0.65 MILES

Larache has a small rubbish-strewn strip of sand below the town, but the best beach is across the Loukos Estuary, an 11km drive from the town centre. In…

6. Jean Genet’s Grave

0.68 MILES

French literature buffs mays want to head to the old Spanish cemetery, the final resting place of Jean Genet (1910–86). If the gate is locked, ring the…

7. Lixus Ruins

2.37 MILES

Set on a hill with spectacular views over the Loukos Estuary, the Carthaginian and Roman ruins of Lixus are evocative reminders that settlements on this…

8. Rada Beach

11.97 MILES

The wide sweep of Rada Beach – also known as Mounir Beach after the beach’s well-known cafe owner – is 22km from Asilah (7km of it down a dirt road) and…