Asilah - Historic Sites

Historic sites such as the Portuguese fortifications, the Al-Kamra Tower and the Raissouni Palace (an early 20th century structure) have all been restored and several public spaces have been re-arranged for commercial activities. The town has been designated a National Monument and in 1989 it received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. The ongoing maintenance program incorporates individual houses, public buildings and mosques. Volunteers renovate the sanitary facilities of at least 10 sub-standard houses each year. The occupants of these houses are mostly poor people and live with relatives during the summer months, renting out their own homes. In this way they not only receive a welcome boost to their income, but also provide much-needed accommodation for the influx of visitors to the town.