Things to Do at American Legation Museum

The American Legation Museum holds the distinction of being the first American public property on foreign soil, and honestly, that's just the beginning of what makes this place fascinating. Housed in a beautiful Moorish building that served as the US diplomatic mission from 1821 to 1956, it's now a museum that tells the story of Morocco-US relations - the longest unbroken treaty of friendship in American history, dating back to 1777. The building itself is a work of art, with traditional Moroccan architecture that you'll find yourself admiring as much as the exhibits. What's particularly interesting is how the museum manages to weave together American diplomatic history with Moroccan culture and the unique international character of Tangier. You'll find everything from correspondence between George Washington and the Sultan of Morocco to fascinating exhibits about the Tangier International Zone period. The museum tends to be quieter than other attractions in the medina, which actually makes it a perfect spot to really absorb the history without feeling rushed.

The museum sits in the medina on Rue d'Amérique. Getting there means winding through narrow streets like everywhere else in the old city-expect to get turned around at least once. From the Grand Socco, head into the medina and ask for directions. Locals know it well. The museum works as a decent landmark if you're trying to orient yourself in the maze of alleyways that make up this part of town. From the Kasbah area, you'll walk about 10 minutes downhill. The entrance is tricky to spot. Look for small American and Moroccan flags instead of big signs-the museum doesn't believe in announcing itself loudly. Taxis get you close but won't take you all the way. You'll walk the final stretch. The medina's pedestrian-only areas don't accommodate cars, so plan on hoofing it through the crowded passages to reach the entrance.