History of pirates city

Salé has historically contributed significantly to shaping Morocco into the dynamic country it is today.
The first anti-French protests began in Salé in the 1950s, setting off nationwide political disturbances that eventually resulted in Morocco’s independence from France in 1956.

Salé has always been renowned as a town that likes to “stir things up,” and in the 17th century, the “Salée Rovers” was a notorious band of pirates that terrorized the area.
The village was so well-known for its involvement in piracy that Daniel Defoe included it in his classic novel “Robinson Crusoe,” where Robinson is held captive by the Salée Rovers.
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While Salé’s history is undoubtedly fascinating, it is the town’s laid-back atmosphere that will captivate independent tourists.
There are 800,000 people living in Salé, and many of them are low-wage factory employees.
It stands out in this sense from Rabat, which is crowded with government employees and feels considerably more formal than Salé.

Travelers will be attracted to Salé because of its “unofficial” atmosphere and because it is an authentic Moroccan town without a huge emphasis either on government or tourism.
Instead, as one strolls through Salé’s historic streets, one notices elderly men peacefully conversing while drinking coffee in run-down cafes.
Women bring home newly prepared Moroccan flatbread from the local bakery or communal ovens as children play in the streets.
After the commotion of Rabat, the picturesque pace of life is soothing to many visitors.
Monuments in Morocco’s Salé

Take the time to explore some of Salé’s historic religious structures while you are there. The city’s beautiful mosques proudly display Moroccan tilework that dates back centuries in the zellige (Arabic) term for Moroccan tilework.

Enter a 14th-century madrasa and consider the magnificent architecture that makes up the school structure.
The fish in Salé is renowned for being very tasty, especially when prepared in a classic Moroccan tajine. Take a stroll down to the shores of the Bou Regreg and watch as colorful boats unload their daily haul. Feel free to buy some fresh fish for yourself.

Salé is renowned for its artisans who create beautiful wooden furniture including chairs, trays, and desks (the trays make wonderful presents!).
Visit one of Salé’s woodworking factories to take a look at how the artisans construct their wooden creations as well as what they offer for sale.
You may get some incredible bargains because Salé pricing is known to be significantly lower than Rabat.

A journey to Salé, one of Morocco’s many hidden jewels, will allow you to see a side of the country that the guidebooks sometimes overlook and experience the warm atmosphere of a traditional Moroccan working-class town. Although it is not on the traditional travel agenda for most people taking Morocco tours, Salé is a must-see destination.