Azrou Aylal

Today we were off to the seaside city of Essaouira which is about a four hour bus ride from Marrakesh.  Thankfully, we stopped for a wine tasting at Val d'Argan winery in Ounagha village for a sampling of their finest.  I had some doubts on how a small winery would be able to handle a descent of 160 tourist, but it was wonderful.  With four lovely wines to sample and plenty of munchies, it was a great way to spend in conversation with some of our fellow travelers.

We arrive at the Medina of Essaouira and visit the souks where the streets are a bit wider and less crowded than what we experienced in Marrakesh. There seem to be more agricultural items here, making it a bit more colorful and aromatic.  Also, being seaside, we have more comfortable weather, and we are thankful for that and the views as well. 

In the 1700s, Moroccan Jews settled in the town and handled the trade with Europe. Jews once comprised the majority of the population, and the Jewish quarter contains many old synagogues. Changes in trade, the founding of Israel, the resulting wars with Arab states, and the independence of Morocco all resulted in many Jews leaving the country.  We stopped at Bayt Dakira, a cultural center that shows the history of the Moroccan Jewish community and highlights the coexistence of Muslims and Jews in Essaouira and other Moroccan cities.  

On our way back to Marrakesh, we stop by Lalla Marjava, a women run cooperative for the extraction of oil from the Argan tree and manufacture of products such as shampoos and creams. The oil is highly valued for its antioxidant properties.  This tree is indiginous to Morroco, and having seen the products being made, we know they are authentic.  (Don't always believe what you buy on Amazon!)Read more