The Blue Pearl

One of the places I can call home is Morocco. I grew up in this contrasting beautiful country. Despite being born in a latino culture, ‘Al Maghreb’ became my home and a place  that engraved a deep print in my heart. Not only because I met the love of my life there, but also because this nation, with its hospitable culture, fascinating food and enchanting places got a grip of me forever.

My husband and I returned to visit Morocco, where we first met 16+ years ago. Our itinerary was so packed due not wanting to miss out on going back to every  possible significant place and reuniting with dear friends.

Flying into Tangier, we got on a all-night train to Tetouan and shared a taxi  with another couple we met on the train to our first destination : Chefchaouane. One of my personal favorite places in the world! 

Chefchaouane, the Blue Pearl of Morocco,  is situated in the Rif Mountains. It was founded in 1471 as a small kasbah or fortress to fight the Portuguese invasions of northern Morocco.

It’s a magical place. Where your senses come alive. Coming from a the  busy city of Santiago, Chile, where we lived at the time, the different tones of blue that cover this hilly town overwhelms you with tranquility and fascination.

We had booked a little airbnb inside the medina on Outa El Hammam square run by a 5 star host, Rachida and her family. The house is located in front of the Central Mosque and by the Chefchaouane Kasbah.  We wanted to be right in the middle of where life happens.

This house, renovated in 2016, celebrates Moorish architecture with its horseshoe arches, and unique tile work forming beautiful intricate patterns.

We were woken up in early hours of the morning by the call to prayer, the adhan. A formal announcement called out from the mosque five times a day by the muezzin from a loudspeaker on the minaret. It’s a deep, nostalgic chant that travels throughout the sleepy streets urging its most devoted to prayer.

We spent the day exploring the little winding streets of the medina, stoping for food and mint tea as much as we could.  Capturing moments and fascinating spaces with our cameras.

I wish one could capture the smell of bresh baked bread from the little communal bakery. Local people daily make their own dough at home and bring it to be baked in a wood-fired oven for a small fee.

We lost ourselves amongst the souks and little random shops that offer the most amazing handmade products: carpets, blankets, leather bags, puffs, spices, just mention a few. I had to hold myself back a million times since we only had our backpacks and we still had other places to visit, nevertheless, I purchased a few treasures.

I almost fall short in saying that it was an extraordinary experience, locked in my memory.  And every time I go back to that memory, my heart longs to be there. I hope you have the privilege of visiting this town at least once in your lifetime. You will be instantly moved by it’s beauty and you’ll want to go back!