Tangier – The Meeting Place Of Two Cultures
Tangier is one of those rare places in the world that gained worldwide attention due to its strategic global positioning, though abundantly endowed with natural beauty. The city is best described as the confluence of diametrically opposite features.
East meets West
Tangier lies in the northern coast of the Africa close to Europe. Spain is barely 14 kms away across the Straight of Gibraltar. The culture, atmosphere and architecture of Tangier have more European influence and hence stands out among other cities of the region, including other Moroccan cities.
The city is the entry point to Africa from Europe and thus, had strategic importance from time immemorial. Tangier is not only the meeting ground of two huge continents, it is also the place where various cultures, civilizations and religions blend. This adds to the charm of Tangier with its potpourri society.
Past imperfect
Even though Tangier’s location is now touted as its biggest advantage, in the 19th and 20th centuries, this same feature caused its downfall. It was fought for by regional powers for their own selfish motives. This resulted in the city becoming a haven of criminals and drug peddlers.
Despite this, many famous personalities stayed here permanently or for short visits. Oscar Wilde and Winston Churchill are among the lucky few. The world-famous authors who made Tangier their home, wrote extensively about its natural beauty.
After Morocco gained independence, the status of Tangier became worse than ever with its elite population along with international establishments moving away to greener pastures. It required very little time for Tangier to fall from its international-status and become a non-entity. This marks the low point of the city.
Rising like a phoenix
The beginning of the new millennium turned the tide for this tiny picturesque city. Slowly but surely, situation started improving and Tangier got back its status as a coveted tourist destination, especially among Europeans.
With the economy recovering, the government is undertaking extensive infrastructure upgrades to raise it to international standards. Transport and accommodation are receiving the maximum attention. Moroccan government is inviting foreign investment with tax exemptions and easy fund transfers.
Come and experience the Tangier magic
The city has a unique feel on its own, which is difficult to describe. Here the opposites co-exist peacefully to the surprise of visitors. The first impression may be one of chaos and mess, but as with time, the underlying patterns gains clarity.
Like all Moroccan cities, Tangier too is divided into old city, Medina and the new city. The old city has narrow streets and the people are mostly Muslims, The new city has a modern feel with buildings and colonies in European style.
Tangier, being a beach town, is most vibrant along the beachfront. Government projects aimed at tourists are coming up in this region. Villas, houses, hotels, resorts, waterfront cafes and restaurants dot the coastline. The places of interest in the city are its famous squares – Place-de-France, Grand Socco and Petit Socco.
Filed Under: About Tangier
