The Gran Teatro Cervantes opened in 1913, built by Manuel Pena and Esperanza Orellana, a Spanish couple, at a time when Spain had a large community and influence in Tangier. The building combines neo-Mudejar tilework with art-deco touches and was one of the largest theatres in North Africa. It staged opera, zarzuela and flamenco, and later cinema, and it was a social centre of the Spanish community. The Moroccan state bought it in 1985, but the theatre has stood closed for decades while restoration plans were debated. The facade remains well worth a stop from the street.
| Admission | Adult Free to view from the street · Child Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Exterior viewable at all times; interior closed |
| Address | Rue Salah Eddine el Ayoubi, Tangier 90000 |
Why it matters
The theatre records the Spanish community's role in early 20th-century Tangier.
Location
Rue Salah Eddine el Ayoubi, Tangier 90000
35.7836, -5.8127 View on map
Highlights
- 1913 Spanish-era theatre
- Neo-Mudejar tilework
- Social centre of the Spanish community
- Restoration awaited
Tips for visiting
- View from the street; the interior is closed.
- Check local news for open days.
- Combine with the Grand Socco.
- Photograph the facade in the morning.
- Avoid blocking the pavement.
When to visit
Morning.
Frequently asked questions
Who built it?
The Spanish couple Manuel Pena and Esperanza Orellana, opening in 1913.
Can visitors enter?
Not normally.