Tangier to Tetouan and Chefchaouen: Private day trip

Tetouan as it stands today dates back to the 15th century when it was re-built and fortified by Ali al-Mandri who had emigrated from the Andalusian city of Granada shortly before the Reconquest. Thousands of Muslims and Jews from Andalucia followed suit, and it’s even nicknamed Little Jerusalem by Sephardi Jews. Tetouan’s ties to Spain were further strengthened when it was made the capital of the Spanish protectorate of Morocco in 1913. While the medina is one of the smallest in Morocco, it’s one of the most complete and unaltered, not to mention distinctive for its Andalusian styling, which has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the narrow streets up the hill you’re treated to a marriage of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture, with white walls, arabic arches, and even a Catholic church amongst the mosques.

Chefchaouen was founded in the 15th century as a fortress to fend off the Portuguese invasion of Morocco. A century later, it welcomed Muslims and Jews from Andalusia who had to flee Spanish persecution during the Reconquest. At some point in the 20th century, the traditional buildings of the medina were painted a vibrant sky blue. One explanation for the decision is that blue keeps mosquitos away, while another theory is that it was introduced by Jews fleeing Hitler in the 1930s with the blue serving as a reminder of heaven and God’s power. The most cynical is that the decision was made in the 1970s simply to attract tourists. Regardless of the reason, the winding alleys and traditional buildings rendered in a brilliant blue are undeniably entrancing. Add to that the traditional handicrafts and cuisine not found elsewhere in the country and you’re in for an unforgettable experience, and countless photos if you ever need a reminder.