Coastal Heritage: Sea Castle at Safi
The Sea Castle (Château de la Mer / قصر البحر) is a monumental 16th-century fortress situated on the Atlantic coastline of Safi. Constructed by the Portuguese during their occupation of the coastal trading outpost between 1508 and 1541 (Castelo do Mar), the fortress features thick stone bastions, crenellated towers, and gun platforms overlooking the breaking ocean surf, guarding the harbor entrance and reflecting Safi's rich maritime history.
Issued in 1955 as part of Morocco's architectural and landscape definitive series (MAROC / المغرب), this 25-franc postage stamp (POSTES / LE CHATEAU de la MER à SAFI) depicts the fortified coastal stronghold against the rolling ocean waves. Designed by A. Delpy and engraved by Pierre Gandon, the deep blue intaglio print captures the imposing stone walls and square keep of this historic oceanfront fortress.
Issued in 1955 as part of Morocco's architectural and landscape definitive series (MAROC / المغرب), this 25-franc postage stamp (POSTES / LE CHATEAU de la MER à SAFI) depicts the fortified coastal stronghold against the rolling ocean waves. Designed by A. Delpy and engraved by Pierre Gandon, the deep blue intaglio print captures the imposing stone walls and square keep of this historic oceanfront fortress.