Nador: A Brief History of Morocco’s Most Historic City
Nador, located in the Rif region of northern Morocco, is a city steeped in history and culture. From its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast to its vibrant markets and historical monuments, Nador has been the center of Moroccan life for centuries. The city has seen many different rulers and occupiers over the years, each leaving their own unique mark on the city. Here is a brief history of Nador, Morocco’s most historic city.
The city of Nador was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC. The city was then conquered by the Romans in the 1st century AD, who made it an important trading port. In the 7th century, the city was conquered by the Muslims, and it became part of the Umayyad caliphate. The city was then conquered by the Almohads in the 12th century, and it was during this period that the city’s most famous monuments were built, including the Great Mosque of Nador and the Great Tower of Nador.
In the 15th century, the city was conquered by the Portuguese, who made it an important trading post. The Portuguese were driven out in the 16th century by the Saadi dynasty, which made Nador its capital. During this period, the city flourished as a center of trade and culture. The city then came under the rule of the Alawite dynasty in the 17th century, and it remained under their rule until the 19th century.
In the late 19th century, Nador was occupied by the Spanish, who built a number of fortifications around the city. The Spanish were driven out in the early 20th century by the French, who made Nador a part of their colonial empire. The city was then occupied by the Spanish again in the 1940s, and it remained under their rule until Morocco’s independence in 1956.
Today, Nador is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a number of historical monuments, including the Great Mosque of Nador and the Great Tower of Nador. The city also has a thriving market, where visitors can find a variety of traditional goods. Nador is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to explore the city’s rich history and culture.