The Kasbah of Agadir (or Agadir Oufella)

Agadir Oufella, also known as the Kasbah of Agadir, is a historic and majestic place for the inhabitants of Morocco. This fortress overlooks the port and reaches a height of 236 metres. This site, steeped in history and highly symbolic for the locals, is a must-see for tourists visiting Morocco and Agadir in particular. It serves as a reminder of the city's past, following its destruction in the 1960 earthquake.

It had been built with the aim of protecting itself from the attacks of the Portuguese colonists, and today all that remains are ruins. Pending its complete reopening, restoration work is underway and should be completed in 2024, with the site partially open. The Kasbah dominates the bay of Agadir and offers a splendid panorama of the city and its hinterland.

La forteresse de la Kasbah d'Agadir
© miragik / 123RF

The history of the Kasbah of Agadir

The Kasbah of Agadir is also called the Agadir Oufella, which means "the citadel from above". It was built in 1540 by Sultan Mohammed ech-Cheikh, who belonged to the Sâadienne dynasty, to protect himself from potential invasions, particularly the Portuguese.

Before it was destroyed in the 1960 earthquake, the Kasbah was home to residents and comprised a hospital, an outer wall supported by towers designed for defensive purposes, a large mosque, houses, alleyways, the Treasury and mail building, a Jewish temple and a sanctuary.

The ruins of Agadir's old city walls destroyed by the earthquake
© eunika / 123RF

Why go there?

The Kasbah of Agadir is a must-see on any itinerary to Agadir. You can admire the city from every angle. Even before you enter the citadel, the phrase "Fear God and respect the king" is engraved in Dutch on the gate to remind you that the Netherlands, under the sovereignty of the Saadian Sultan, were based here.

You haven't even passed through the door yet, and you're already immersed in the historic atmosphere of the place. If you fancy a stroll at night, the site is illuminated.

Agadir fortress at sunset
© miragik / 123RF

The Kasbah is still being restored inside the ramparts, so as visitors you can simply enjoy the outside and the view. You can even watch the sunset from the top of these ruins, from a breathtaking vantage point.

These mountain roads are very popular, especially with the sports enthusiasts you'll come across. A visit to the Kasbah is usually included in the city tours, so you can stroll along the ancient walls of the fortress.

Agadir fortress overlooking the sea
© saiko3p / 123RF

Thanks to its recent renovations, you'll come across a large square where you can take a camel ride. There are several ways to get to the Kasbah, and if you're a thrill-seeker and aren't afraid of heights, you can reach the place by cable car.

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How do I get there?

👉 If you want to visit this district of Agadir, which offers an exceptional view over the whole city, you'll have to do so either by transport, particularly the bus, or on foot, as it is forbidden to climb this hill by car or motorbike except on tourist transport.

For the more adventurous, the Agadir Oufella cable car station will take you up in one of its cabins and transport you to the heights as far as the Kasbah.

Where to stay?

La Kasbah has a good geographical location, and there are plenty of hotels to choose from. The Anezi Tower hotel, 2.8 kilometres from Agadir, is highly recommended because of its proximity to the Agadir Oufella.

Its terrace overlooks the city and its beaches, and there are three outdoor swimming pools and two restaurants. There are also tennis courts for your entertainment and a sauna and hammam for your relaxation. For outdoor activities, the hotel is 300 metres from the Amazigh Heritage Museum and 700 metres from the Jardin Belvedere.

Anezi Tower Hotel Agadir
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Anezi Tower Hotel

Quiet hotel overlooking the bay, ideally located for visiting Agadir.
7 Fine
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£75 / night
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Just 2.5 kilometres from the Oufella ruins, the Odyssee Park Hotel is in the centre of Agadir. Spa, swimming pool and gym. Buffet meals are served in the hotel's restaurant or snack bar. With friends or family, with or without children, all the activities on offer are adapted to your needs. There is a play area for your children, as well as table tennis and billiards.

Among the two restaurants, the Nomad, open for breakfast and dinner, will delight your taste buds with French, Italian and Moroccan specialities. The second, La Pergola, is open for lunch and serves international cuisine.

Odyssée Park Hotel Agadir
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Odyssée Park Hotel

Travellers love the peace and quiet of this hotel, the friendliness of the staff and the proximity of the beach!
7.1 Fine
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£67 / night
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Where to eat?

The Pure Passion restaurant is a 10-minute drive from the Agadir Oufella. The restaurateurs will be delighted to welcome you to their restaurant near the port and serve you European cuisine with seafood and fish à la carte. Special gluten-free and vegetarian meals are also available.

Vue sur la Kasbah d'Agadir depuis la plage en soirée
© ppart / 123RF

Advice from the Editor

👉 Authorities in the Souss-Massa region have taken the decision to ban car and motorbike traffic at night. Numerous accidents have occurred in this area, and the aim is to put a stop to the problem. On the other hand, if you want to take an evening stroll along the mountain road to the Kasbah, you can walk there to enjoy the peace and quiet of the night.

Admission to Agadir Oufella is free, but to take the cable car up the mountain, you'll need to pay 80 dirhams per person, and 50 dirhams for children under 1m40.

by Val HANCOCK
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