The Medina of Agadir

Agadir is often associated with its beach, Corniche and modern neighbourhoods. However, the city also has a place where visitors can discover architecture inspired by traditional Moroccan medinas: Agadir Medina, often known as Medina Polizzi.

With its narrow lanes, earth-toned walls, craft spaces and decorative details, it offers an experience very different from Agadir’s seafront.

A different kind of Medina

It is important to understand what makes this place distinctive.

Agadir Medina is not the city's original historic Medina.

Much of old Agadir was destroyed by the 1960 earthquake. The Medina visited today is a much more recent creation inspired by traditional Moroccan architecture and building techniques.

It is closely associated with architect and artist Coco Polizzi, which explains why it is commonly called Medina Polizzi.

Why visit Agadir Medina?

The Medina provides a complete change of atmosphere from modern Agadir.

During your visit, you can discover:

• lanes and passageways;
• buildings inspired by traditional architecture;
• courtyards and open spaces;
• Moroccan decorative elements;
• areas connected with traditional crafts.

The overall atmosphere is as important as any individual feature.

Take your time rather than simply walking through the main areas.

Architecture inspired by Moroccan traditions

Architecture is one of the main reasons to visit.

Materials, volumes, doors, arches and decorative details draw inspiration from different Moroccan architectural traditions.

The Medina therefore provides an opportunity to notice details that are less visible in Agadir’s modern neighbourhoods.

It also offers many interesting perspectives for photography.

Crafts and traditional skills

The Medina also provides a setting for discovering aspects of Moroccan craftsmanship.

Depending on the areas accessible and the activities taking place when you visit, you may encounter decorative objects and examples of traditional skills.

Take time to appreciate the materials and workmanship rather than viewing the site simply as a shopping destination.

For a much busier commercial experience, combine the visit with Souk El Had.

Medina Polizzi or Souk El Had?

The two places provide very different experiences.

Medina Polizzi is primarily about architecture, atmosphere and an interpretation of Moroccan architectural traditions.

Souk El Had is a large working market where visitors can explore stalls, shop for products and experience a much busier commercial environment.

The two are therefore complementary rather than alternatives.

How long should you allow?

The amount of time required depends on your interest in architecture, crafts and photography.

There is usually no need to dedicate an entire day to the Medina.

However, allow enough time to explore without simply passing through the main areas.

A slower visit makes it easier to appreciate the architectural details.

When should you visit?

Comfort will depend partly on the season and temperature.

During warmer periods, visiting outside the hottest part of the day can make walking more pleasant.

Opening hours, admission prices and access arrangements may change, so check current information before travelling.

Practical tips

To prepare for your visit:

• wear comfortable shoes;
• bring water during warmer periods;
• use sun protection;
• take time to notice the architectural details;
• ask permission before photographing people or craftspeople directly;
• check current opening and access information;
• confirm prices before making purchases.

Do not confuse it with Agadir Oufella

To better understand Agadir’s history, it is also useful to distinguish Medina Polizzi from Agadir Oufella.

Agadir Oufella is the historic Kasbah site overlooking the bay.

Medina Polizzi is a contemporary project inspired by Morocco's architectural heritage.

Visiting both therefore reveals two very different dimensions of the city.

Combine it with Souk El Had

After exploring the Medina's architecture, Souk El Had provides a much more energetic experience.

Spices, fruit and vegetables, everyday products, crafts and numerous shops give the market a completely different role.

Combining both visits helps reveal a side of Agadir beyond its coastline.

Return to the seafront

After exploring architecture and crafts, head back towards Agadir Beach and the Corniche.

The contrast is striking: within the same day, you can move from architecture inspired by Moroccan traditions to a long promenade facing the Atlantic.

This variety is one of the advantages of spending several days in Agadir.

Discover another side of Agadir

Agadir is a modern city that was extensively rebuilt following the 1960 earthquake.

Medina Polizzi should therefore not be confused with a preserved historic centre.

Its appeal is different: it offers an architectural project inspired by Moroccan heritage and an atmosphere far removed from Agadir's familiar beach-resort image.

Understanding this distinction also makes the visit more meaningful.

Planning your stay in Agadir

During a longer stay, alternate between different sides of the destination: beaches, markets, heritage, nature and coastal villages.

You could combine the Medina and Souk El Had during an urban day, then spend another day exploring Paradise Valley or Taghazout and the beaches along the coast.

Read our guide to planning your stay in Agadir for more ideas.

Stay in Agadir

Haven Stay offers selected holiday rentals in Agadir as a comfortable base for your trip.

You can explore the Medina, Souk El Had and the seafront while easily organising excursions around the Agadir region.