Spanish Mosque (Jemaa Bouzafar)
جامع بوزعافر
A white mosque on the hillside east of the old town, and the best spot to look down over the blue mountain town and watch the sunset.
This mosque was built in the 1920s by the Spanish colonial authorities, which is why it is called the “Spanish Mosque.” Its local name is Jemaa Bouzafar. After it was completed, it was almost never used as a mosque. Today it is an abandoned white building and an observation platform. From the old town's eastern gate, Bab el Ansar, cross the small bridge over the Ras El Ma stream and follow a dirt path uphill. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The slope is gentle, but there is no shade. From the platform in front of the mosque, the whole blue-and-white old town spreads out at the foot of the Rif Mountains. In the evening, the sunlight turns the mountains golden, and the call to prayer rising from the town is especially moving. It is a must-see sunset spot in Chefchaouen. Admission is free, and there are no set opening hours. Note: It gets dark quickly on the way down, so bring a flashlight. Vendors occasionally approach visitors along the path, so it is safer to go with a companion.
Opening hours
Open all day (sunset recommended)
Nearby sights
- Ras El Maa
- Chefchaouen Blue Medina
- Plaza Outa el Hammam & Kasbah
- Jebel el-Kelaa
- Akchour Waterfalls & God's Bridge
- Talassemtane National Park
- Oued Laou Beach
- Medina of Tétouan