American Legation

Hours

Mon-Fri 10am-5pm

Entry

20 MAD

Duration

40 minutes

Location

8 Rue d'Amérique, Medina

The first American public property outside the United States, donated by a sultan in 1821. Morocco recognised American independence before most of Europe did.

America's First Foreign Property

In 1777, Morocco became the first country in the world to recognise the United States. Sultan Mohammed III — looking to irritate the British and open Atlantic trade — extended recognition to the fledgling republic 12 years before George Washington took office. The treaty of friendship signed in 1786 remains the longest unbroken treaty in American history.

The legation building in Tangier's medina served as the American diplomatic mission from 1821 to 1961, when the embassy moved to Rabat. It is the only National Historic Landmark on foreign soil. The building was a gift from the sultan.

Today it functions as a museum, cultural centre, and research library. The collection mixes diplomatic history with art — including a set of paintings by Marguerite McBey and a room dedicated to Paul Bowles, who donated part of his personal archive before his death in Tangier in 1999.

The Building

The legation is a traditional Tangier medina house, expanded over decades of American occupation. The rooms open off courtyards in the Moroccan manner. The decoration is a hybrid — Moroccan tilework alongside American diplomatic furniture, European paintings alongside Tangier photographs.

The Paul Bowles room contains letters, photographs, and recordings. Bowles lived in Tangier from 1947 until his death in 1999 — 52 years without learning Arabic, a fact his biographers find alternately charming and damning.

Visiting

The legation is inside the Tangier medina, off Rue d'Amérique. Ring the bell — a caretaker will let you in. The visit is self-guided or guided, depending on who is working that day.

Allow 30–45 minutes. The collection is modest but the diplomatic history is singular — the idea that America's first foreign real estate was in a Moroccan medina reframes both countries' histories.

The building also hosts occasional concerts, lectures, and art exhibitions. Check the Tangier American Legation Institute website for programming.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for a quieter visit. Check opening hours in advance — the legation keeps limited hours and sometimes closes for events.

Getting There

In the Tangier medina, off Rue d'Amérique near the Petit Socco. From the Grand Socco, enter the medina and head downhill toward the port — Rue d'Amérique is signposted. Look for the American flag.

Local Tip

First American public property abroad

Common Questions

Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States (1777). The building served as the American diplomatic mission from 1821 to 1961 and is the only US National Historic Landmark on foreign soil.

A small donation is appreciated. Check current hours in advance.

Bowles lived in Tangier from 1947 to 1999 and donated part of his archive to the legation. A room is dedicated to his letters, photographs, and recordings.

In the Tangier medina, off Rue d'Amérique. Look for the American flag. Ring the bell at the door.

Walking Distance

Nearby

Natural

Cape Spartel

Natural

Hercules Cave

The American Legation is the first piece of US diplomatic real estate — Morocco recognised American independence before anyone else. We visit because the story is the building.

Tell us about your trip →

Explore More