Citerne portugaise d'El Jadida

Located beneath the citadel, the first building the Portuguese built at Mazagan in 1514, the cistern was fitted out in 1541. This semi-subterranean square hall, about 33 to 34 metres per side, rests on five rows of five stone pillars and columns, in the late Gothic style known as Manueline. A round opening in the centre once collected rainwater: today a thin layer of water covers the floor and reflects the shaft of light falling from the ceiling. A classified monument in Morocco, it is part of the UNESCO site and has served as a location for several films, including Orson Welles' Othello. Sources report temporary closures: check that it is open before your visit.