Chefchaouen, Morocco

The amazing city of Chefchaouen also known to many under the unofficial name of Blue City, is situated in Morocco. It owes a name to its unique architecture. Like many hundreds of years ago, locals live in old stone houses with walls painted blue. Streets look like works of art. While walking there, you can see thousands of different shades of blue.

The history of the city is simply amazing. It was founded in 1471 by Spanish, Jewish, and Muslim exiles. Away from home, they decided to create a town similar to their homeland. The city was built in a remote mountainous area. For hundreds of years, mountains and rocks have served as a safe natural defense. The blue color, which the townspeople paint their houses, is a reminder about the importance of the Jewish tradition. Blue color is sacred for Jews; it reminds them of the sky and God. For hundreds of years, the city has remained closed for gentiles, that is why it was able to save its unique identity after more than 500 years.

A difficult and rather long journey waits for travelers who want to visit this wonderful Moroccan city. The easiest way to get to Chefchaouen is to start from the nearby city of Tangier. A car or bus ride takes about five hours. Patient travelers will be rewarded. They will be able to stroll through azure streets, glimpse into the hidden courtyards decorated with live flowers, and visit nice shops and buy original Moroccan souvenirs. Next - Avenue of the Baobabs