Most Moroccan cities will have an old town, known as the medina, and a more modern side of town, known as the ville nouvelle. The medina in Asilah is small, clean and known for its iconic stone fortifications flanked by palms. These structures were built by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and today, are the town's landmark.
Another shining example of the Moorish style can be seen in the center of Asilah's small new town. The Church of San Bartolome was built by Spanish Franciscans in the colonial Moorish style,and is one of the few churches in the country allowed to ring the bells for Sunday Mass.
If you happen to be visiting during the Asilah Festival, visit the seaside of the medina to view the Palais de Culture (Palace of Culture). Built in 1909 by the powerful Er-Raissouli, this palace is only open during the festival or for temporary exhibits. This gorgeous building has a main reception room, and a glass-fronted terrace with an ocean view and a grisly past. From this spot, Er-Raissouli forced convicted murderers to jump to the deaths on the rocks below.
If the haunting history of Asilah isn't on your itinerary, perhaps you'd be more interested in lounging some of the beautiful beaches. The main beach in Asilah is a long stretch of golden sand, but be prepared that if you're there in the summer, it can get quite crowded and noisy. If you need a bit more peace and quiet, go a little south to Paradise Beach. This spot offers a pleasant walk along the coast, and even has horse-drawn carriages in the summertime.
For a truly unique experience, try to plan your trip to coincide with the Asilah Festival. Focused on the Centre de Hassan II Recontres Internationales, this festival brings artists, musicians, performers and over 200,000 spectators in for three days of workshops, public art demonstrations, concerts, exhibitions and events. This event, drawing in visitors from around the world, is also known to include a Moroccan fantasia – a musket firing cavalry charge – toward the end of the festival.
The city of Alisah has become a haven for local, African artists. You'll want to take advantage and go to as many galleries as you can find – including the Aplanos Gallery. Created by Belgian painter Anne-Judith Van Loock and her Moroccan husband, Ahmed Benraadiya, this gallery hosts many works from local and foreign visitors. Another gallery hosting young local artists would be the Galerie Hakim – started by artist Hakim Ghailan.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Asilah. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Assilah tour on the atlantic coast for $91 details