Asilah Mural Project

The Asilah Mural Project is a unique urban art initiative that transforms the historic Medina of Asilah into an open-air gallery. Originating in 1978, the project was co-founded by artist Mohammed Melehi and politician Mohamed Benaissa with the goal of renewing the town’s urban fabric and fostering cultural exchange. Since then, it has become the longest-running public art project in Morocco, turning the white-washed walls of the medina into a vibrant canvas for international artists.

Every August, the Moussem Culturel International d'Asilah brings together artists from Africa, the Arab world, and Europe to paint large-scale murals on the buildings throughout the old city. These artworks accumulate year after year, layering over previous pieces to create a rich, textured visual history. For visitors, the medina becomes a dynamic maze of color and creativity, where contemporary art contrasts with traditional Moroccan architecture.

The murals are accessible to the public at all times, with no admission fees required to view the street art. Walking through the narrow, pedestrian-only streets allows travelers to encounter these installations up close, observing the diverse styles and themes contributed by global artists. The project serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a tool for cultural dialogue and community pride. It reflects Asilah’s evolution from a small coastal settlement into a dynamic cultural hub. The experience is immersive and ever-changing, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of tradition and modernity in Morocco.