The Mendoubia was the residence of the Mendoub, the sultan's representative in Tangier, who dealt with the foreign consuls. When the city became an International Zone in 1923, governed by a multi-nation statute rather than by Morocco alone, the Mendoubia stood at the centre of the arrangement as the Moroccan sovereign's representative. The zone had its own legislative assembly, international police, courts and currency freedoms, and made Tangier a magnet for traders, spies, writers and artists until 1956. The surrounding gardens now belong to the public, with an ancient fig tree and old cannons. The building itself is closed to visitors, but the garden and nearby Grand Socco make the history easy to read on foot.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Gardens open in daytime; building closed to the public |
| Address | Rue d'Italie area, Tangier 90000 |
Why it matters
The site stands for the unusual 1923-1956 International Zone that gave Tangier its cosmopolitan reputation.
Location
Rue d'Italie area, Tangier 90000
35.7867, -5.8128 View on map
Highlights
- Seat of the sultan's representative
- Tangier International Zone history
- Garden with an ancient fig tree
- Antique cannons
Tips for visiting
- Visit the garden between the Grand Socco and the medina.
- The interior is closed.
- Read about the 1923 statute before visiting.
- Combine with the Cinematheque and the Petit Socco.
- Free to enter.
When to visit
Late afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
What was the International Zone?
From 1923 to 1956 Tangier was governed under an international statute by several powers with a Moroccan representative, the Mendoub.
Can I go inside the Mendoubia?
No, only the garden is public.