Hostel La Smala
About This Museum
Tucked away on Rue Skala, just a stone's throw from the old ramparts, Hostel La Smala isn't your typical museum; it's a living piece of Essaouira's bohemian soul. The building itself hums with stories, having sheltered everyone from wandering artists to world-weary travelers over the decades. You can feel its history in the sun-warmed courtyard and the faint scent of salt and cedarwood drifting from the carved doors. It’s less a formal exhibit and more an invitation to step directly into the town's vibrant, laid-back narrative.
Collection Highlights
The main exhibits are the hostel's own common areas, adorned with decades of traveler graffiti, local folk art, and well-loved musical instruments that invite impromptu jam sessions. A highlight is the collection of vintage photographs lining the walls, showing Essaouira's windy squares and fishing ports as they were a generation ago.
Visitor Information
You don't need a ticket to soak up the atmosphere—just wander in and maybe order a mint tea. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when the light is golden and you might hear someone playing Gnawa music in the courtyard.
Architecture & Building
A classic Moroccan riad with a central courtyard, featuring traditional blue-and-white painted woodwork, thick earthen walls that keep it cool, and a charmingly weathered terrace that offers glimpses of the ocean.
Contact & Location
Address: Hostel La Smala, Rue de la Skala Nord زنقة السقالة, Medina المدينة, La Kasbah القصبة, Essaouira الصويرة, Pachalik d'Essaouira باشوية الصويرة, Province d'Essaouira ⵍⵉⵇⵍⵉⵎ ⵏ ⵚⵡⵉⵔⴰ إقليم الصويرة, Marrakech-Safi ⵎⵕⵕⴰⴽⵛ-ⴰⵙⴼⵉ مراكش-أسفي, 44103, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب
Phone: +212 8085-95321
Website: Visit Website
