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Essaouira is a city in the western Morocco on the Atlantic coast. Since the 16th century, the city has also been known by its Portuguese name of Mogadore. In 1506, the king of Portugal, D. Manuel I, ordered a fortress to be built there, named Castelo Real de Mogador. Because of this, the Berber name means the wall, a reference to the fortress walls that originally enclosed the city. The present city of Essaouira was built during the 18th century by Mohammed III, wishing to reorient his kingdom toward the Atlantic.
Essaouira is protected by a natural bay partially shielded by wave action and strong winds by the Iles Purpuraires. The conditions here are ideal for breathing in the ocean air. The Canary Current is responsible for the generally southward movement of ocean circulation and has led to enhancement of the local fishery. In the waters surrounding Essaouira the most common fish is the red tuna, sardines, swordfish, hake, barracudas and shrimps. The harbor is a delightful diversion, filled with colorful boats that have been carefully decorated by local fishermen. Fish are quite cheap. Fishermen sell their catch through the fish market and you can have it cooked at the small kitchens or restaurants.