Dublin Core
Title
Feddan Park
Description
Feddan Park, commonly known as Place Al Feddan (or Plaza Primo during the Spanish Protectorate), is a large public square and landscaped urban park located at the western entrance to the historic medina of Tetouan in northern Morocco. Positioned between the old city walls and the modern city center, the square occupies a strategic transitional space that historically served as a military parade ground and open esplanade during the period of Spanish rule in the early twentieth century. Its name, “Feddan,” derives from an Arabic term referring to a large open field or expanse of land, reflecting its original function as a broad civic space.
The site underwent a major transformation in the early twenty-first century as part of an ambitious urban rehabilitation program aimed at enhancing the surroundings of Tetouan’s UNESCO World Heritage medina. Completed in 2009, the redevelopment was designed by the Spanish architect Carlos Ferrater in collaboration with Moroccan authorities. The project introduced extensive stone paving, ornamental gardens, fountains, ceramic benches, pergolas, and an underground parking facility, while preserving the square’s role as a central gathering place. The redesign successfully blended contemporary architectural elements with motifs inspired by Andalusian and Moroccan artistic traditions, creating a modern public space that respects the historical identity of the city.
Today, Feddan Park is one of Tetouan’s most emblematic civic landmarks and a focal point of social and cultural life. It serves as a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, offering panoramic views of the medina and surrounding mountains, and functioning as a venue for festivals, concerts, and public celebrations. As a symbolic threshold between the historic medina and the modern urban fabric, Feddan Park reflects Tetouan’s ongoing commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary urban needs.
The site underwent a major transformation in the early twenty-first century as part of an ambitious urban rehabilitation program aimed at enhancing the surroundings of Tetouan’s UNESCO World Heritage medina. Completed in 2009, the redevelopment was designed by the Spanish architect Carlos Ferrater in collaboration with Moroccan authorities. The project introduced extensive stone paving, ornamental gardens, fountains, ceramic benches, pergolas, and an underground parking facility, while preserving the square’s role as a central gathering place. The redesign successfully blended contemporary architectural elements with motifs inspired by Andalusian and Moroccan artistic traditions, creating a modern public space that respects the historical identity of the city.
Today, Feddan Park is one of Tetouan’s most emblematic civic landmarks and a focal point of social and cultural life. It serves as a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, offering panoramic views of the medina and surrounding mountains, and functioning as a venue for festivals, concerts, and public celebrations. As a symbolic threshold between the historic medina and the modern urban fabric, Feddan Park reflects Tetouan’s ongoing commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary urban needs.