History
The international city
1923–1956: when Tangier belonged to no one.
The story
For more than thirty years, Tangier was an international zone administered by several powers. This interlude drew diplomats, bankers, spies and artists. Matisse painted here in 1912 and 1913, Paul Bowles settled here, and Mohamed Choukri wrote For Bread Alone here. The Librairie des Colonnes, opened in 1949, keeps the memory of that time.
In practice
Why go. A landmark of Tangier's literary life, with books about Tangier and Morocco in several languages.
Who it's for. Readers and anyone curious about the city's literary history.
Good to know. Closed on some days: opening hours to be checked.
Getting there. On Boulevard Pasteur, a ten-minute walk from the Grand Socco.
Recommended time. About 20 min. Free entry.