Borj Al Barmil
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Borj el Barmil Tower

4.6
·91 reviews·Essaouira, Morocco

A historic 18th-century circular bastion offering breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into Essaouira's defensive past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Borj Al Barmil

Borj el Barmil Tower

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 18th-century circular bastion offering breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into Essaouira's defensive past.

4.6
(91 reviews)

"Impressive historical landmark with unique architecture and stunning views of the sea and city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets are usually around 60 Dirhams and easy to buy at the entrance. Often bundled with Skala du Port access.

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The top offers incredible photo ops of the ocean and city. Don't miss the fish market below!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ocean Views

Panoramic Ocean Views

Top of the tower

Breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and Essaouira's coastline. Perfect for photography!

Historic Defensive Architecture

Historic Defensive Architecture

The tower itself

Explore the robust 18th-century circular bastion, a key part of Essaouira's ancient fortifications.

Fish Market Spectacle

Fish Market Spectacle

Overlooking the port

Witness the vibrant activity of the working port and fish market below.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Borj el Barmil

To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience. Check local event schedules for potential festivals or gatherings that might impact your visit.

Tickets and Access

Entry to Borj el Barmil typically requires a ticket, often bundled with access to the larger Skala du Port. Prices are generally reasonable, around 60 Dirhams. Purchasing tickets is usually straightforward at the entrance.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Shoulder seasons
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pure freedom with friends 😍 #essaouira #horseriding #gallopinghorse #morocco #horserider
@maessaouira
453.3K likes • 2.9M views

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets are usually around 60 Dirhams and easy to buy at the entrance. Often bundled with Skala du Port access. Reddit

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The top offers incredible photo ops of the ocean and city. Don't miss the fish market below! Reddit

Together, we turn strength into power — one heart, one team, one purpose. 👉🏼 We are a Travel Agency based in Essaouira (Morocco). Join us for an unforgettable horseride holidays. Ride the best horses in town, and meet the best team of riders. . . . . . . #horses #horsesoftiktok #horse #horsetok #equestrian #fyp #cheval #fypage #viral #viralvideo #pferd #horsesontiktok #лошадь #horselove #essaouir...
@essaouirahorseparadise
433.3K likes • 4.6M views
شنو تقدر دير في الصويرة ب 10 Dh 🇲🇦#travel #essaouira #morroco🇲🇦 #morocco #explore
@asmae__bel
166.3K likes • 3.7M views

🚶 Explore the Ramparts

Walk along the historic ramparts for a full sense of Essaouira's coastal defenses. Reddit

🐎 Horse Riding Nearby

Many visitors enjoy horse riding on the beach near the tower. TikTok+2

Magical moments in Essaouira- Morocco🇲🇦💕 . DM me to learn more about upcoming group trips!💌#horseriding #grouptrip #horsetrekking #horsebackriding #horsevlog
@gioiagolinelli_
131.9K likes • 1.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets are usually around 60 Dirhams and easy to buy at the entrance. Often bundled with Skala du Port access. Reddit

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The top offers incredible photo ops of the ocean and city. Don't miss the fish market below! Reddit

🚶 Explore the Ramparts

Walk along the historic ramparts for a full sense of Essaouira's coastal defenses. Reddit

🐎 Horse Riding Nearby

Many visitors enjoy horse riding on the beach near the tower. TikTok+2

🐈 Essaouira's Feline Friends

Be prepared for lots of cats around the city, including near the tower! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(91 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Borj el Barmil for its historical significance, impressive architecture, and stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Essaouira's port. The easy ticket process and the opportunity to observe the vibrant fish market are also highlights. Some visitors found the entrance fee a bit steep for the interior experience, preferring the views from outside.

"Borj El Barmil: A Charming Historical Landmark Worth Visiting!

I really enjoyed visiting Borj El Barmil. It's an impressive historical landmark featuring unique architecture and stunning views of the sea and the city of Essaouira. Wandering through the tower takes you on a journey through time, and you can feel the grandeur of the history it holds within its walls.

The location is excellent, situated on the waterfront, making it a major attraction in the city. The views from the top are wonderful and worth capturing in photos.

I highly recommend visiting Borj El Barmil to anyone visiting Essaouira, as it combines history and natural beauty in one place."

el Bachir el houari

"A historical place, with an amazing tower, you can walk on top, beautiful view of Atlantic Ocean. Getting ticket was easy , 60 Dirham per person. Definitely worth it to go and visit it."

Hellee Beh

"The view looks good from outside. I didn't go inside the fort due to the entrance fee and didn't feel like it will be a better view inside"

Chandra Kanth Reddy

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Historic architecture
Port and fish market observation

What People Dislike

Entrance fee perceived as high by some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Borj el Barmil is located on the waterfront, part of the Skala du Port. It's easily accessible by walking from the main medina of Essaouira. Many visitors arrive via coach from Marrakech, which takes about 3 hours. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's a prominent circular structure on the northwestern corner of the city, overlooking the sea and the port. You can see it from many points along the coast. Reddit

Buses are a popular and affordable option from major Moroccan cities like Marrakech and Casablanca. The journey offers scenic views. TikTok

Parking is available near the medina, and from there, it's a short walk to the tower. Driving directly to the tower itself is not possible due to its location within the historic ramparts. TikTok

Yes, taxis are readily available in Essaouira and can take you to the edge of the medina, from where you can walk to the tower. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around 60 Dirhams per person. This often includes access to the broader Skala du Port area. Reddit

Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance to the tower and the Skala du Port. The process is generally quick and easy. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date times. Reddit

Yes, the ticket for Borj el Barmil often includes access to the Skala du Port, which is the larger defensive rampart system it's part of. Reddit

While you can see the tower from the outside, to access the top and explore its interior, an entrance fee is required. Some visitors opt out if they feel the view from outside is sufficient. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic circular bastion, walk on its ramparts, and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the port, and the fish market. It's a great spot for photography. Reddit

Yes, children can explore the tower, but supervision is recommended due to the heights and open areas. The views and history can be engaging for them. Reddit

Expect spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Essaouira coastline, the bustling fish market below, and the nearby islands. Reddit

Absolutely! The unique architecture, ocean vistas, and the vibrant port activity make it a photographer's paradise. The sunset views are particularly stunning. TikTokReddit

Built in the 18th century as part of Essaouira's defenses, it's a circular bastion designed to protect the port. It was also known as the Northern Bastion and has undergone restorations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around the port and medina is filled with restaurants offering fresh seafood and Moroccan cuisine. You can even see the fish market from the tower. Reddit

Definitely! The fish market below the tower is a hub of activity where you can buy fresh catch and have it grilled at nearby eateries. Reddit

Essaouira is known for its delicious seafood, tagines, couscous, and other traditional Moroccan dishes. TikTok

Yes, several cafes and restaurants along the ramparts and near the port offer lovely views while you dine or enjoy a mint tea. TikTok

You can find a range of dining options, from budget-friendly street food and local eateries to more upscale restaurants. Eating at the fish market stalls is often very affordable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the tower for panoramic ocean and city views, the ramparts themselves, and the vantage point overlooking the bustling fish market are prime spots. Reddit

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides the magical golden hour glow. Sunsets are spectacular. TikTokReddit

Yes, the tower offers an excellent elevated view of the fish market's daily operations, capturing the vibrant atmosphere. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be respectful of locals and ask permission before photographing individuals. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the fish market or distant coastline. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Borj el Barmil offers an engaging historical site for families. Kids can explore the ramparts and imagine defending the city, while the panoramic views provide a sense of adventure. The nearby fish market can be a fascinating, albeit sometimes pungent, experience for younger visitors. Ensure close supervision due to the heights and open spaces. Reddit

Beyond the tower, Essaouira itself is family-friendly. The wide beaches are great for playing, and many horse riding excursions cater to families. The medina's maze-like streets can be fun to explore, and the abundance of cats might be a hit with animal-loving children. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Borj el Barmil is an affordable attraction, with entry fees typically around 60 Dirhams. The real value comes from the stunning views and historical insights. You can enjoy much of Essaouira's charm without spending a lot. Reddit

Eating at the fish market for fresh, grilled seafood is a budget-friendly culinary experience. Exploring the medina and enjoying the beach are free activities. Public transport from other cities like Marrakech is also quite economical. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Borj el Barmil is a photographer's dream. The unique circular architecture, the dramatic coastal landscape, and the vibrant port activity offer endless shooting opportunities. Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones, the vastness of the Atlantic, and the lively scenes of the fish market. Reddit

For the best shots, aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. The sunset views from the tower are particularly breathtaking. Don't forget to explore the surrounding ramparts for different angles and perspectives. The nearby beach also offers fantastic opportunities for capturing horse riders against the ocean backdrop. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Defense of Borj el Barmil

Borj el Barmil, also known as the Circular Bastion or the Barrel Tower, is a significant historical structure dating back to the 18th century. It was meticulously constructed as a vital component of Essaouira's formidable defensive fortifications, designed to safeguard the bustling port from potential naval assaults. Its strategic position on the northwestern corner of the city, jutting into the Atlantic, made it a crucial lookout and artillery platform. The tower's circular design, approximately 25 meters in diameter and 6.20 meters high, was topped with stone merlons, providing a strong defensive perimeter. Reddit

Within its robust walls, Borj El Barmil served multiple purposes. It housed soldiers and ammunition, ensuring readiness for any attack, and crucially, it contained a lower floor designed as a water reservoir, vital for sustaining a garrison during prolonged sieges. The upper floor featured a hall, likely used for command and operations. The tower was armed with large cannons, some dating back to the 18th century, capable of firing projectiles over considerable distances, underscoring its importance in the coastal defense system. The tower's historical significance is further highlighted by its classification as a historical monument in 1924. Reddit

Over the centuries, Borj Al-Barmil has witnessed conflict and undergone restoration. It sustained damage during the French attack on Essaouira in 1844, with some accounts suggesting intentional demolition by locals to prevent its use by the invaders. Subsequent restorations in the 19th century and more recently by the Port Development and Exploitation Office and the Inspectorate of Historical Monuments and Sites have preserved its heritage. Today, it stands not only as a testament to Essaouira's past but also as a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors to admire its architecture and the dramatic sea views. Its fame even extended to the screen, as it was a filming location for "Game of Thrones." Reddit

Experiencing Essaouira's Vibrant Port and Fish Market

Overlooking the fish market below, Borj el Barmil offers a unique perspective on Essaouira's working port. Unlike sanitized tourist spots, this is a genuine hub of activity where local fishermen bring in their daily catch. You can witness the dynamic process of fish being bought, cleaned by dedicated workers, and then prepared for sale or consumption. This authentic glimpse into maritime life is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

The proximity of the tower to the fish market allows for a sensory experience. The sights, sounds, and smells of a working port create a lively atmosphere. Many visitors find it fascinating to observe the ebb and flow of commerce, from the arrival of boats to the bustling stalls. It's a great place to understand the local economy and the importance of the sea to Essaouira. Reddit

For those looking to savor the local flavors, the fish market area is a culinary delight. You can purchase incredibly fresh seafood directly from the fishermen or vendors and have it expertly grilled at one of the many small eateries located just around the corner. This offers an authentic and often very affordable dining experience, allowing you to taste the ocean's bounty right where it's landed. Reddit

Beyond the Tower: Essaouira's Coastal Charm

While Borj el Barmil is a key attraction, Essaouira itself offers a wealth of experiences. The city is renowned for its beautiful, windswept beaches, making it a popular destination for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. The constant breeze, which also contributes to the city's cooler climate, is a defining characteristic. TikTok+1

The medina of Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by its blue and white architecture, narrow winding streets, and vibrant souks. Here, you can find local crafts, argan oil products, and unique souvenirs. The city also has a rich cultural scene, particularly known for its Gnawa music festivals, which fill the air with rhythmic melodies. TikTok+1

For a different perspective, consider the popular activity of horse riding along the beach. Many visitors share their exhilarating experiences of galloping along the shore, often at sunset, creating unforgettable memories. TikTok+3 Essaouira's charm lies in its blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and laid-back coastal vibe, making it a captivating destination. TikTok+1

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