Today, the Kasbah houses the ethnological museum mentioned earlier, as well as an interior garden, fountains and patios. The view from the top of the Kasbah is also spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the city of Chefchaouen and the surrounding mountains.
The Kasbah is a very popular tourist spot and one of the major attractions for visitors to the city.
History of the Kasbah of Chefchaouen
The majestic Kasbah of Chefchaouen, which dates back to the 15th century, was built in 1471 by Rachid Ben Ali to protect the city and is located on the Outa El Hamman square, next to the great mosque. The Kasbah consists of a mosque, several dwellings and a wall that surrounds it, forming the centre of the city of Chefchaouen.
The medina developed around the fortress, which has a square plan and is flanked by bastions and quadrangular towers. The main tower of the Kasbah is distinguished by its architectural structure and function. It has three floors, the last of which is a large covered terrace accessible through restored doors.
An ethnological museum has been installed in the left wing of the Kasbah and was inaugurated in 1985. It exhibits key elements of Moroccan heritage such as typical musical instruments, pottery, sculptures, embroidery and weapons that would have been used to defend the fortress.
Entrance fee to the Kasbah
The entrance fee to the Kasbah of Chefchaouen is 6€ (60 Dhs) for foreign tourists, against 10 dirhams for Moroccans (about 2 euros) and is free for children under 12 years old.
