Rabat: A documentary highlighting the role of Essaouira’s youth in preserving and promoting the City’s rich heritage and identity was screened Sunday evening at the iconic Bayt Dakira in Essaouira. Directed by Inès Boudad, Vice-President of the Youth Section of the Essaouira-Mogador Association, the film explores the city’s unique identity, showcasing its UNESCO-listed medina, historic ramparts, cultural and cinematic influence, rich musical heritage, and longstanding tradition of coexistence among Amazigh, Arab, African, Jewish, and European communities.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the documentary, titled “Essaouira, a City of Peace and a Family Tribute,” also underscores the commitment of young people to the city’s cultural, associative, and entrepreneurial life, while emphasizing the enduring value of local craftsmanship despite technological advances. Speaking after the screening, Advisor to HM the King and Founding President of the Essaouira-Mogador Association André Azoulay praised the doc
umentary for reflecting the city’s remarkable transformation over the past 35 years and highlighting the key role of youth in sustaining its development and international outreach.

Azoulay also called on younger generations to continue strengthening Essaouira’s model of coexistence, diversity, and innovation. Referring to the profound changes Essaouira has undergone in recent decades, Azoulay noted that “the city has managed to overcome a period marked by decline and uncertainty to reclaim its spot as a space for dialogue, creativity, and openness.”

For her part, Boudad said the city’s greatest wealth lies not only in its landmarks but in the people shaping its future. The documentary forms part of initiatives aimed at promoting Essaouira’s memory and heritage while encouraging greater youth participation in enhancing the city’s cultural identity and national and international standing.