Medina of Agadir (Coco Polizzi): a living artisan village

The Medina of Agadir, also known as the Coco Polizzi Medina, is a beautifully crafted artisan village where more than 300 craftspeople work in a living, open-air museum. Unlike Morocco ancient medinas, it was built from scratch after the 1960 earthquake using traditional materials and techniques.

A carefully rebuilt artisan medina

The Medina of Agadir was created by Italian-Moroccan artist Coco Polizzi as a tribute to traditional Berber and Moroccan architecture. Built with local stone, rammed earth and handcrafted detail, it gathers hundreds of artisans in a calm, beautiful setting quite different from a busy commercial souk.

The result feels like both a village and a museum, where craft is shown with pride rather than hard-sell pressure.

What you will see

Wander shaded lanes between earthen walls and watch potters, weavers, jewellers and calligraphers at work. Gardens, fountains and traditional architecture make it as much a peaceful stroll as a shopping trip.

It is a quiet, photogenic alternative to the busier Souk El Had, and a great place to understand Moroccan craft before trying it yourself.

How to visit the Medina of Agadir

The medina sits a few minutes south of the city centre, and you should allow one to two hours. There is a small entrance fee. You can read more about the city on Wikipedia.

It is the perfect place to see craft in action before making your own, so it pairs naturally with a hands-on workshop.

Combine with an artisan workshop

After seeing the artisans at work, try it yourself with a leather babouche workshop or a pottery workshop in Agadir. Browse all our artisan workshops to make something by hand.

Who will enjoy the medina

The Medina of Agadir suits craft lovers, photographers, families and anyone who prefers a calm cultural stroll over a hectic market. It is especially rewarding for visitors who want to understand how Moroccan crafts are made.

Because it is shaded and relaxed, it is also a comfortable option on a hot afternoon.

What to buy at the medina

The Medina of Agadir is a wonderful place to find authentic, high-quality crafts directly from the makers: hand-thrown pottery, engraved brass, woven textiles, leather goods and silver jewellery. Because artisans sell their own work, quality tends to be higher than in tourist bazaars.

Prices are generally fair and fixed, so you can browse and buy in a calm, pressure-free atmosphere, which many visitors find a refreshing change from the busy souk.

Tips for your visit

Go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and take your time, the pleasure here is in wandering slowly. Bring cash for purchases, and do not be shy about watching the artisans work, they are usually happy to explain their craft.

Comfortable shoes help, as the lanes are cobbled and gently sloping.

Best time to visit the medina

The Medina of Agadir is pleasant year-round thanks to its shaded lanes and gardens. Mornings and late afternoons are the most comfortable, especially in summer, and also the best times to catch the artisans actively at work rather than on a break.

Medina of Agadir FAQ

Is the Medina of Agadir an old medina?

No, it was built after the 1960 earthquake using traditional techniques, so it is a modern artisan medina rather than an ancient one.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit the artisan medina.

How long should I spend there?

Allow one to two hours to enjoy the lanes, gardens and artisan workshops at a relaxed pace.