The coastal town of Larache is the antithesis of Asilah. The whitewashed medina is in need of a paint job. The Qebitat, a 16th century Portuguese fort, is crumbling. The shops are short on souvenirs. Reaching Larache is somewhat complicated. So why take the kids? Larache is a laid-back port city. - There are hardly any hustlers and few foreign tourists. - The Moorish medina, while not comparable with the grand old quarters of the imperial cities, is experiencing a renaissance. The salt flats on the north side of Larache are great place to watch birds. The port-side fish market is an evocative attraction. - Take in a fish auction. Eat grilled sardines. - The ancient settlement of Lixus is but 5 km from the city center. White sand beaches stretch from the Loukkos River. What's more, a family trip to Larache affords an authentic cultural experience.
On August 4, 1578, three kings - the fanatically religious King Sebastian of Portugal, power-hungry Abu Abdallah Mohammed II, and rightful ruler Sultan Abd el-Malik - duked it out at the northern Moroccan village of Ksar el-Kebir. King Sebastian dreamed of establishing Christian rule in Morocco. Abu Abdallah Mohammed, the oldest son but not the eldest male, sought his uncle's throne. Abd Al-Malik defended his domain. As in all fairytale-like stories, the foolhardy are in no way heroes and greed never pays. Both King Sebastian and Abu Abdallah were killed in battle thus sealing the fate of Morocco and leaving Portugal without an heir.
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