We bet you’re wondering why such a quaint, laid-back town has such a huge fortress. Well, the secret lies in the town’s distant past. Morocco was under threat by the Spanish and Portuguese back in the 15th and 16th centuries. In the year 1471, the towns of Tangier and Asilah were captured by the Portuguese, which inspired Chefchaouen’s founder, Mulay Ali ibn Rashid to construct defences to protect his people. The result of those construction efforts resulted in a massive fortress, which has also lead to the town becoming fortified. Extensive restoration works have brought the fortress to its former glory, and since a lot of it has been left untouched, you will actually be able to experience a medieval military fort authentically. What’s more, it also houses various attractions inside, including the Kasbah Museum, a jail, and even an art gallery. But if you were looking to relax and admire the sights, then why not go into the gardens after walking the length of the fortress? It is here that you will be able to enjoy some serenity as you are surrounded by all sorts of flowers giving off wonderful scents. It’s no doubt rather strange that a place built for war houses such a peaceful enclave, but I guess you could say that the fortress was truly built to protect the peace within.