The Gran Teatro Cervantes is a grand Spanish-era theatre on the Rue Salah Eddine el Ayoubi, opened in 1913 by the Spanish couple Manuel Pena and Esperanza Orellana, and designed in a mixture of neo-Mudejar and art-deco styles. In its day it hosted opera, zarzuela and touring theatre. The theatre has been closed for decades and was sold to the Moroccan state in 1985, with restoration plans announced repeatedly since. Visitors usually admire the tiled facade and the arched entrance from the street, where the building appears dilapidated but still impressive. The interior is not open to the general public except during occasional special events. The theatre makes a good photography stop on the way between the Grand Socco and the new town.
| Admission | Free to view from the street |
|---|---|
| Hours | Exterior viewable at all times; interior closed |
| Typical visit | 15-20 minutes |
| Best time | Morning |
| Getting there | Walk 5 minutes from the Grand Socco |
| Address | Rue Salah Eddine el Ayoubi, Tangier 90000 |
Location
Rue Salah Eddine el Ayoubi, Tangier 90000
35.7836, -5.8127 View on map
Highlights
- Neo-Mudejar and art-deco facade
- Spanish-era 1913 theatre
- Atmospheric ruin near the Grand Socco
- Photography stop
Tips for visiting
- View from the street; the interior is closed to the public.
- Check local news for restoration events or open days.
- Combine with the Grand Socco and Cinematheque.
- Best light is morning for the front facade.
- The surrounding street is busy with traffic.
When to visit
Morning for the facade light.
Accessibility
Exterior viewing only from a pavement.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go inside?
Not normally; it is closed apart from occasional special events.
When was it built?
It opened in 1913 and was named after the Spanish author Cervantes.