Over the past years the city has seen a considerable growth in tourism, and regular connections by air launched in 1998 have further contributed to this carefully nurtured development.

The city´s history stretches back to the 7th century BC, when the Phoenicians stopped off at the isle of Mogador on their way down to the equator. Juba II, King of Mauretania, later set up a manufactory there to produce the purple dye so sought after by the Romans. The site was then occupied in succession by the Portuguese and the Saadien sultans. The town´s true founder was the Alaouite sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, who entrusted its layout to Théodore Cornut (a Frenchman, student of Vauban´s) in 1760.

Essaouira (former Mogador) rapidly became the port for Tombouctou. Products manufactured in Europe were exchanged there for gold, salt, sugar, and...ostrich feathers!
In the 50s and 60s Essaouira became a favourite refuge for rock stars (Cat Stevens - Jimy Hendrix....) in need of rest and relaxation ; Orson Welles shot his famous film "Othello" there.

In the past few years, new adepts have arrived on the scene - surfers drawn by the impressive waves blown towards Moulay Bouzerktoun and Sidi Kaouki by the trade-winds.
Today, numerous foreigners are settling in Essaouira, restoring the old houses of the Kasbah, opening hotels and restaurants....all careful to respect the town´s heritage and traditions - the Souiris keep a scrupulous eye open to make sure they do!