Borj Dar Baroud
Historic military fort in Tangier offering panoramic port views and a glimpse into Morocco's strategic past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Borj Dar Baroud
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic military fort in Tangier offering panoramic port views and a glimpse into Morocco's strategic past.
"Great views of the ocean and city from this small, historic fort."
Translate the History
Information boards are in French & Arabic. Use Google Translate for English insights! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and ramparts to explore, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Port Views
Ramparts
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Tangier port and the Spanish coast from the fort's terraces.
Historic Armstrong Cannons
Fortifications
Marvel at the impressive 20-tonne Armstrong cannons, remnants of Tangier's military past.
Military Fortification Architecture
Fortress
Explore the well-maintained 18th-century reconstruction and learn about its strategic importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the Entrance Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Translate the History
Information boards are in French & Arabic. Use Google Translate for English insights! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and ramparts to explore, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Combine with Nearby Sights
Great views are also available from outside the fort walls. :world_map:
Quick Visit Possible
You can see most of the fort in under 10 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Translate the History
Information boards are in French & Arabic. Use Google Translate for English insights! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and ramparts to explore, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Combine with Nearby Sights
Great views are also available from outside the fort walls. :world_map:
Quick Visit Possible
You can see most of the fort in under 10 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Borj Dar Baroud for its well-maintained historical fortifications and the stunning panoramic views of Tangier's port and the sea. The impressive old cannons are a notable highlight. However, some feel the entrance fee is a bit high for the relatively short duration of the visit and the limited historical information available in English.
"Beautiful and well maintained. Free visit to walk around. Stairs up and all around the area. Clean. The mosque in front which you can see from here."
Kyle Fields
"A beautiful fort along the Bab Al-Bahar. There are some old Canons atop the fort, which is the only thing to see apart from a great view of the ocean. These views can anyways be seen from outside alongside the wall, so no point spending another MAD50.0 to enter and experience the same."
Shaik Masood
"To actually visit the fortification it costs you 50DH per adult, so about €5. I would say this is NOT worth the cost. Yes, it is cool to walk the ramparts but we saw the entire thing in under 10 minutes, and that was going slow while reading all the signs. Not a lot of information about the history and they could have done a lot better. Keep your €5 and instead buy some good food!"
Zach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Borj Dar Baroud is located in the heart of Tangier's old medina, near Bab Al-Bahar. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the historic center. Taxis can also drop you off nearby.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark within the old city walls, often mentioned in guides to Tangier's historical sites.
Driving directly to the fort can be challenging due to narrow medina streets. It's best to park outside the medina and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The fort is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to double-check locally as hours can sometimes change.
There's an entrance fee of approximately 50 MAD per adult to access the ramparts and interpretation center. Some areas outside the paid section offer views for free.
Opinions vary. Some find the fee reasonable for the historical context and views, while others feel the visit is too short for the cost. +1
You can walk around the exterior and get some views of the port without paying. However, to explore the ramparts and the interpretation center, a ticket is required.
📸 📸 Photography
The terraces offer stunning panoramic views of the port and the sea, especially during golden hour. The historic cannons also make for great shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the fort. Be mindful of any specific restrictions within the interpretation center.
Many visitors capture landscape shots of the port and coastline, as well as historical details like the cannons and architecture. 
🎫 🏛️ History & Experience
Originally a military fortress built to defend Tangier, its current structure is largely an 18th-century reconstruction. It housed an old gunpowder store, hence 'Dar El Baroud' (House of Gunpowder).
The site features historical ramparts, old cannons (including impressive Armstrong cannons), and an interpretation center detailing the fortifications' history.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the fort and learning about its military history. It's a good educational outing.
There are information boards, but they are primarily in French and Arabic. Using a translation app can help access the English content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical information might be more suited for older children or adults, the visual elements – the cannons, the walls, and the expansive views – are universally appealing. It's a good opportunity to introduce kids to Tangier's rich military history in a hands-on way. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little explorers!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The best light for photography is often during the early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours,' when the sun casts a warm glow on the fort and the water. Don't miss opportunities to photograph the imposing Armstrong cannons, which add a dramatic historical element to your shots. The textures of the old stone walls also make for interesting close-ups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Borj Dar Baroud
+1The current structure largely dates back to an 18th-century reconstruction, showcasing robust military architecture designed for defense. It served as a key component of the network of fortifications surrounding the ancient city, ensuring its security. The presence of large cannons, like the impressive Armstrong cannons, underscores its role as a formidable defensive position.
Visiting Borj Dar Baroud offers a tangible connection to Tangier's past. The interpretation center aims to bring this history to life, explaining the fort's role and the evolution of Tangier's defenses. It's a place where you can stand on the ramparts and imagine the historical events that unfolded there.
Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere
The atmosphere within the fort is generally peaceful, especially during off-peak hours. Many visitors note the surprising lack of crowds, even on weekends, which allows for a more immersive experience. Walking along the ramparts, you can feel the history of the place and appreciate the strategic placement of the old cannons.
While the paid access offers the most comprehensive experience, even the areas around the fort provide glimpses of its grandeur and the surrounding seascape. It's a place that combines historical intrigue with natural beauty, offering a unique perspective on Tangier.
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