Museum

Portuguese Cistern (Mazagan)

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The Portuguese Cistern, built in the 16th century, is an atmospheric underground chamber that once served as a reservoir for the fortified city of Mazagan. Its most striking feature is a shallow layer of water on the floor that creates perfect reflections of the vaulted brick arches and central columns, giving the space an ethereal, cathedral-like quality. Sunlight filters through a small oculus in the ceiling, adding to the dramatic lighting. Visitors can descend into the cool, dimly lit space to admire the architecture and capture stunning photographs.

Don't miss

  • See the iconic reflection of the vaulted arches in the thin layer of water on the floor.
  • Observe the interplay of light from the oculus in the ceiling, which illuminates the chamber.
  • Notice the original brickwork and the central column that supports the vaulted ceiling.

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Ways to visit Portuguese Cistern (Mazagan)

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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