Portuguese Cistern of El Jadida
Casablanca-Settat
The Portuguese Cistern of El Jadida is an exceptional historical monument located within the fortified city originally built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, known as Mazagan. This cistern, constructed around 1541, served as a rainwater reservoir designed to sustain the fortress during sieges. Architecturally, it is renowned for its Manueline style, featuring a vaulted ceiling supported by elegant pillars that create a captivating play of light and shadow, especially when water reflects inside. The cistern is part of the Portuguese fortified city, which is recognized by UNESCO as an outstanding example of cultural interchange between European Renaissance ideals and Moroccan construction techniques. The city walls, bastions, and other structures underscore the military and strategic importance of Mazagan during Portuguese rule. Today, the cistern is a popular museum attraction, drawing visitors fascinated by its historical significance and unique atmospheric beauty, symbolizing the fusion of Portuguese and Moroccan heritage.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stunning light effects inside the cistern. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid waiting times. The site offers discounts for students and groups. Guided tours are recommended to gain deeper insight into the cistern's history and architectural details. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested due to uneven surfaces within the fortified city area.
Faits intéressants
- •The cistern's vaulted ceiling is supported by 16 pillars arranged in a grid, creating a mesmerizing reflection of light and water.
- •The Portuguese fortified city of Mazagan, including the cistern, is one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World.
- •After the Portuguese left in 1769, many inhabitants were relocated to Brazil where they founded Nova Mazagão.
- •The cistern was converted from a former armory to a water reservoir in 1541 to enhance the fortress's defense capabilities during sieges.
Histoire
The Portuguese Cistern was built in 1541 as part of the fortifications of Mazagan, a Portuguese stronghold established in the early 1500s by architects Francisco and Diogo de Arruda.
It was created to store rainwater to help the fortress withstand prolonged sieges, particularly during conflicts with local Arab forces.
The cistern remained a vital part of the city's infrastructure until the Portuguese abandonment of Mazagan in 1769, when the city was taken over by Moroccan Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah.
Subsequently renamed El Jadida in 1820, the city and its cistern have been preserved as a testament to the Portuguese influence in Morocco and were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 for their cultural and architectural significance.
Guide du lieu
The Cistern Chamber1541
This is the main chamber of the Portuguese Cistern, famous for its Manueline vaulted ceiling with 16 pillars. The water on the floor reflects the ceiling, creating an ethereal atmosphere that has captivated visitors and filmmakers alike.
City Walls and BastionsEarly 16th century
Surrounding the cistern is the fortified city of Mazagan, featuring thick walls and bastions built to defend against attacks. The walls showcase Portuguese military engineering of the 16th century.
Church of the Assumption16th century
Located within the fortified city, this Manueline style church represents the religious architecture of the Portuguese period and complements the cistern's cultural significance.