Larache

Fortified seaport in northern Morocco, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 70 km/43 mi southwest of Tangier; population (2004) 107,400. The city lies on the western side of the Er Rif range of mountains, at the mouth of the River Loukos, and was given added importance by the Arabs after their conquest of Morocco in the 8th century. Pottery and weaving are traditional Moroccan crafts which the thriving tourist industry has helped to maintain. The town also exports oranges, pulses, beans, wheat, wool, hides, and wax.

Larache was occupied in turn by Portugal, Spain and Morocco. The fort of Casbah de la Cigogne, in the old walled city, dates from the 17th century period of Spanish control.