Laayoune, the largest city in Western Sahara, has a fascinating history. Founded in 1938 by the Spanish under the name Villa Cisneros, the city served as the center of the Spanish colony of Western Sahara until its handover to Morocco in 1975.
Since then, Laayoune has experienced rapid development, with a growing population and new investments in infrastructure. The city is now an important economic and cultural center in the region, with annual festivals and a newly established university.
Despite its recent history, Laayoune also has ancient roots. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of human presence in the region since the Lower Paleolithic, and the city was an important stopping point for trans-Saharan caravans.
Today, Laayoune is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and a rich nomadic culture. Visitors from around the world come to discover the spectacular sand dunes and the city’s age-old traditions.
