Al Hoceima history

Foundation and First Mentions

Unlike the ancient imperial cities of Morocco, Al Hoceima has a relatively young history as a major urban centre. The modern city began to actively take shape around 1925. Initially, the settlement was named Villa Sanjurjo and developed on lands where small settlements of local Berber tribes were previously located.

The current name "Al Hoceima" was officially adopted after the country gained independence. It is believed to derive from the word "Al Khuzama", which translates to "lavender". This aromatic plant historically grew in abundance on the slopes of the surrounding hills and in the river valley.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small settlement into an important regional hub was driven by several strategic reasons:

• Unique Geography: The city is situated on a high rocky plateau overlooking a sheltered bay of the Mediterranean Sea. The natural harbour and the protection offered by the Rif mountain range created ideal conditions for establishing a port.
• Strategic Importance: In the first half of the 20th century, this location became a vital administrative and logistical point on the northern coast, connecting the mountainous regions with the sea.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early stages of development, the appearance of Al Hoceima was shaped by the influence of the Spanish school of urban planning and Andalusian architecture. The city was built with neat white houses, wide streets, and squares, giving it a characteristic Mediterranean charm that has been preserved to this day.

The economic life of the young city was built around the sea:

• Fishing Industry: Thanks to the rich bio-resources of the coastal waters, fishing quickly became the backbone of the economy. The local port began to specialize in catching fish and seafood.
• Local Trade: The city became a point of exchange for goods between the inhabitants of the Rif mountain villages and merchants arriving by sea.

Major Milestones in Al Hoceima's History

The history of the city is a journey from a small settlement to the "Pearl" of the Mediterranean. Below are the key dates that shaped the modern appearance of Al Hoceima.

• 1673 — A permanent Spanish presence is established on the Peñón de Alhucemas, an island located directly opposite the city bay, which increased the strategic importance of the area.
• 1925 — Official foundation of the modern city under the original name Villa Sanjurjo.
• 1930s — An active phase of urban planning, during which wide streets were laid out and buildings in the colonial style were constructed.
• 1956 — After the country gains independence, the city receives its current name — Al Hoceima.
• 1960s — The period of the fishing industry's establishment and the expansion of the city port, which became the economic centre of the region.
• 2004 — Following a strong earthquake, a large-scale reconstruction programme begins, allowing for the modernization of housing stock and the urban environment.
• 2007 — Expansion of the Cherif Al Idrissi International Airport, opening the region to a greater number of international tourists.
• 2015 — The King of Morocco launches the "Al Hoceima, Manarat Al Moutawassit" (Lighthouse of the Mediterranean) project for the comprehensive development of culture and tourism.
• Present Day — The city has firmly established its status as one of the most beautiful and safe summer resorts in the north of the Kingdom.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The evolution of Al Hoceima is a journey from a strategic outpost to a modern Mediterranean resort. The key stages that defined the city's current economic and architectural appearance are highlighted below.

• "Garden City" Urban Planning (1920s–1930s)
  Unlike many Moroccan cities with ancient, labyrinthine medinas, Al Hoceima was initially designed according to a clear master plan. Architects laid out wide avenues, squares, and geometrically regular blocks.
  Significance: This provided the city with convenient navigation, a sense of spaciousness, and a European architectural style unique to the region, which is now the resort's calling card.
• Industrialization of Fishing (Mid-20th Century)
  The development of a deep-water port and the creation of processing facilities turned the city into the main supplier of seafood in the north of the country.
  Significance: Fishing became the foundation of the local economy, and Al Hoceima gained fame as a gastronomic centre known throughout Morocco for the quality of its sardines and anchovies.
• Transport De-isolation (Early 21st Century)
  The large-scale reconstruction of Cherif Al Idrissi Airport and, even more importantly, the construction of the modern Mediterranean Bypass (coastal highway).
  Significance: Ending the geographical isolation of the Rif mountain range. Improved logistics gave a powerful impulse to domestic and foreign tourism, connecting the city with Tangier and Saïdia.
• Post-Crisis Renovation (Post-2004)
  After the destructive earthquake, a capital construction programme was launched. Entire new neighbourhoods appeared in the city (specifically, the active development of the Mirador district) using seismic-resistant technologies.
  Significance: Complete renewal of the housing stock, modernization of utility networks, and the creation of a modern, safe urban environment.
• "Al Hoceima: Lighthouse of the Mediterranean" Programme (From 2015)
  A major state investment project aimed at developing social and cultural infrastructure: construction of a grand theatre, conservatory, sports complexes, and waterfront improvements.
  Significance: Diversification of the economy from pure fishing to services and culture, transforming the city into a fully-fledged international tourism cluster.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Design

Unlike the imperial cities of Morocco with their intricate medieval medinas, Al Hoceima demonstrates an example of early 20th-century European urban planning. The city's architecture represents a harmonious fusion of Spanish colonial heritage and modern Moroccan urbanism, adapted to the complex coastal terrain.

Main Architectural Eras and Styles

The development of the city can be clearly divided into two key stages, each of which left its mark on Al Hoceima's visual code:

• Colonial Period (Spanish Protectorate, 1925–1956)
  Style: Spanish Colonial, Eclecticism, Art Deco.
  It was during this time that the foundation of the urban grid was laid. Spanish architects applied the principle of a regular layout with wide straight streets and spacious squares. Buildings from this period are characterized by white facades, concise decor, wrought-iron balconies, and the use of blue accents (doors, shutters), which links the city to the Andalusian tradition.
• Modern Period and Reconstruction (From 2004)
  Style: Modern Functionalism, Seismic-Resistant Construction.
  After the 2004 earthquake, the architectural vector shifted towards safety and modernization. New buildings are erected using reinforced concrete and strict engineering standards. Visually, modern districts (such as Barrio) maintain the traditional colour scheme — white walls remain dominant, preserving the integrity of the "Pearl of the Mediterranean" image.

Iconic Districts and Urban Elements

The appearance of Al Hoceima is formed by several key zones and objects that reflect its history:

• Mohammed VI Square (formerly Plaza de España): The heart of the city and a prime example of Spanish planning. The square is surrounded by administrative and residential buildings of the colonial era, creating an architectural ensemble in the centre that descends in terraces to the sea.
• Church of San José (Iglesia de San José): One of the most recognizable buildings in the city. A Catholic church with two towers, built in the 1920s, it is a classic example of Spanish religious architecture of that time and an important historical landmark.
• Mirador District: A modern part of the city located on high ground. New residential developments and wide panoramic promenades dominate here, offering views of the bay and the port. The architecture is more utilitarian but adheres to the general white and blue aesthetic.
• Port Zone: An industrial-fishing cluster which, despite its functional purpose, fits organically into the landscape at the foot of the cliffs, connected to the upper city by winding roads and stairways.

Prominent Figures Linked to Al Hoceima

The Rif region and the province of Al Hoceima have given Morocco and the world many brilliant individuals. Locals are known for their resilient character and achievements in various fields — from grand history to international sports.

• Abd el-Krim el-Khattabi (1882–1963)
  Military Strategist, Political Figure, National Hero
  Born in the town of Ajdir, located on the opposite shore of the bay from Al Hoceima. El-Khattabi is a key figure in the history of the region in the early 20th century. He became famous as a charismatic leader and talented tactician. His methods of organizing defence and waging the struggle for the region's independence entered military history textbooks and inspired many leaders of liberation movements around the world.
• Mohamed Auajjar (born 1959)
  Diplomat, Politician, Human Rights Defender
  A native of the city of Targuist (Al Hoceima province). A prominent statesman of modern Morocco, having served as Minister of Justice and Ambassador of Morocco to the UN in Geneva. Known for his work in the field of human rights and democratization, he is an example of a successful political career for a native of this region.
• Mounir El Hamdaoui (born 1984)
  Professional Footballer
  Although Mounir was born in the Netherlands, his parents are from Al Hoceima, and he has always emphasized his connection to the region. He played for famous clubs such as Tottenham, Ajax, and Fiorentina, and also defended the colours of the Moroccan national team. He is a bright representative of the successful Rif diaspora maintaining cultural roots.
• Ilyas El Omari (born 1967)
  Politician, Public Figure
  Born in the settlement of Mnoud, Al Hoceima province. An influential figure in Moroccan politics of recent decades, former Secretary General of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and ex-President of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. He actively contributed to attracting investment for the infrastructure development of the northern provinces.
• Ithran Group
  Musical Collective (founded in 1984)
  A legendary group founded directly in Al Hoceima. The name translates as "Stars". The musicians played a colossal role in renewing and popularizing the traditional music of the Rif region, combining folk motifs with a modern sound. Their work is considered an important part of the city's cultural heritage.