Church of the Immaculate Conception 🇲🇦

Located on Rue Es-Siaghine, just west of the lively Petit Socco square in the heart of the Tangier medina, the Church of the Immaculate Conception—also warmly known as the Spanish Church or La Purísima—offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich multi-layered history. Built between 1880 and 1881, this Roman Catholic site stands on the historical grounds of the former Swedish legation, which was originally established back in 1788. When you visit, you will be exploring a landmark designed by architect Manuel Aníbal Álvarez Amoroso under the initiative of Spanish Franciscan father José María Lerchundi, made possible through funding from the Spanish government and the Obra Pía.

Look up to admire its distinctive clock tower, added in 1892–1893, which originally featured a spire before being topped with its present-day cupola. Historically, this sanctuary served as the spiritual home for Tangier’s entire Catholic community, including visiting European diplomats. More recently, the property passed to the Missionaries of Charity, who in 1996 altered the historic interior by partitioning the former church nave into two floors.

It remains a uniquely compelling architectural stop right in the center of Tangier's bustling historic medina.

What to see at Church of the Immaculate Conception

• Located on Rue Es-Siaghine near Petit Socco square
• Built in 1880–1881 on the site of a 1788 Swedish legation
• Designed by architect Manuel Aníbal Álvarez Amoroso
• Distinctive clock tower with a present-day cupola
• Altered interior partitioned into two floors in 1996

Visiting tips

Look for the church along Rue Es-Siaghine just west of Petit Socco square as you navigate the Tangier medina.

How long: 30-45 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Church of the Immaculate Conception is easy to reach on Tangier’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Lalla Abla Mosque and The Great Mosque of Tangier. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tangier travel guide.