From your accommodation in Marrakech, take the north-west to reach the east coast of the Atlantic Ocean and visit the famous city of Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador during the Portuguese colonization in the 16 th century. Formerly known as Mogador, this small fortress was designed as a fortified town surrounded by ramparts. Essaouira has played a major role as an international trading port between Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and to the world. Since 2001 its medina is registered in the World Heritage of UNESCO . Today, Essaouira has become the most popular coastal city of Morocco. Essaouira is known for its fishing port and its blue fleet of wooden fishing boats. However, since the late 20 th century, Essaouira knows a spectacular revival mainly due to tourism, but also its cultural and artistic vocation. The Medina of Essaouira is one of the best-preserved medinas of Morocco. His numerous craft shops, art galleries and open lifestyle attract visitors from around the world among which there are Orson Welles, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley and many other celebrities.