# Safi

> city in Morocco

**Wikidata**: [Q183405](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q183405)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safi,_Morocco)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/safi

## Summary
Safi is a large city in Morocco, serving as the capital of both the Doukkala-Abda region (from 1997 to 2015) and the Safi Province. Founded under the Idrisid dynasty in 789, it has grown significantly over time, with a population of 367,249 as of 2024. The city is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and modern infrastructure, including the Cadi Ayyad University and Stade El Massira.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Safi is a city and an urban commune of Morocco, with a population exceeding 100,000, qualifying it as a big city.
- **Geographic Location**: Situated in Morocco, Safi is part of the Safi Province and the broader Marrakesh-Safi region.
- **Historical Founding**: The city was established during the Idrisid dynasty in 789.
- **Administrative History**: Safi served as the capital of the Doukkala-Abda region from 1997 to 2015.
- **Population**: The population has grown from 262,276 in 1994 to 367,249 in 2024.
- **Infrastructure**: Key landmarks include the Sea Castle, Stade El Massira, and the Cadi Ayyad University.
- **Football Club**: Olympique Club de Safi was founded in 1921.
- **Coordinates**: Safi is located at 32.283333° N, 9.233333° W.
- **Postal Code**: The city's postal code is 46000.
- **Elevation**: Safi is situated at an elevation of 79 meters above sea level.
- **Twin Cities**: Safi has twinning agreements with Setúbal (since 1990), Ali Sabieh, Montereau, Boulogne-sur-Mer, Sfax, and Montereau-Fault-Yonne.

## FAQs
**What is the population of Safi?**
As of 2024, Safi has a population of 367,249, with previous census data showing 262,276 in 1994 and 308,508 in 2014.

**What are the major landmarks in Safi?**
Key landmarks include the Sea Castle, Stade El Massira, and the Cadi Ayyad University, which was established in 1978.

**When was Safi founded?**
Safi was founded during the Idrisid dynasty in 789.

**What is the significance of Safi’s twinning agreements?**
Safi has twinning agreements with several cities, including Setúbal (since 1990), which highlight its role in international relations and cultural exchange.

**What is the elevation of Safi?**
Safi is located at an elevation of 79 meters above sea level.

## Why It Matters
Safi plays a crucial role in Morocco’s cultural, educational, and administrative landscape. As the capital of Safi Province and a former capital of the Doukkala-Abda region, it serves as a hub for governance and development. The city’s historical significance, marked by its founding in 789, underscores its long-standing presence in Moroccan history. Additionally, its modern infrastructure, including the Cadi Ayyad University and Stade El Massira, reflects its role in education and sports. Safi’s twinning agreements with international cities further emphasize its importance in fostering international relations and cultural exchange.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: Safi was founded during the Idrisid dynasty in 789, making it one of Morocco’s oldest cities.
- **Administrative Role**: Served as the capital of the Doukkala-Abda region from 1997 to 2015.
- **Educational Hub**: Home to the Cadi Ayyad University, established in 1978.
- **Cultural Landmarks**: Features the Sea Castle and Stade El Massira, which are key cultural and sporting landmarks.
- **Football Legacy**: Olympique Club de Safi, founded in 1921, is a notable football club in Morocco.
- **Twinning Agreements**: Has twinning agreements with multiple international cities, including Setúbal since 1990.

## Body
### History
Safi was founded in 789 during the Idrisid dynasty, making it one of Morocco’s oldest cities. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various dynasties, including the Saadi and Alawi dynasties. The city’s historical significance is further highlighted by its role as the capital of the Doukkala-Abda region from 1997 to 2015.

### Geography
Safi is located in Morocco, specifically within the Safi Province and the broader Marrakesh-Safi region. The city is situated at coordinates 32.283333° N, 9.233333° W, and has an elevation of 79 meters above sea level. It is positioned near the Atlantic Ocean, which influences its climate and coastal characteristics.

### Demographics
The population of Safi has grown significantly over the years, with census data showing 262,276 inhabitants in 1994, 284,750 in 2004, 308,508 in 2014, and 367,249 in 2024. The number of households has also increased, from 50,913 in 1994 to 85,929 in 2024.

### Infrastructure and Landmarks
Safi is home to several key landmarks, including the Sea Castle, Stade El Massira, and the Cadi Ayyad University. The Sea Castle is a notable historical building, while Stade El Massira serves as a major sports venue. The Cadi Ayyad University, established in 1978, is a significant educational institution in the city.

### Sports
Olympique Club de Safi, founded in 1921, is a notable football club in Morocco. The club competes in the Moroccan football league and has a strong presence in the local sports community.

### Twinning Agreements
Safi has twinning agreements with several international cities, including Setúbal (since 1990), Ali Sabieh, Montereau, Boulogne-sur-Mer, Sfax, and Montereau-Fault-Yonne. These agreements highlight the city’s role in fostering international relations and cultural exchange.

### Administrative and Political Significance
As the capital of Safi Province, Safi plays a crucial role in the administrative and political governance of the region. Its historical status as the capital of the Doukkala-Abda region from 1997 to 2015 further underscores its importance in Morocco’s administrative structure.

### Cultural and Educational Influence
Safi’s cultural and educational influence is evident through its landmarks and institutions. The Cadi Ayyad University, for example, contributes to the city’s reputation as an educational hub. Additionally, the Sea Castle and Stade El Massira reflect the city’s cultural heritage and sporting legacy.

### Economic and Developmental Role
Safi’s economic and developmental role is supported by its modern infrastructure and strategic location. The city’s growth and development are reflected in its increasing population and the expansion of its administrative and educational institutions.

## References

1. 2014 Moroccan census
2. [Source](https://www.mun-setubal.pt/relacoes-externas/)
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. Integrated Authority File
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. [Source](http://www.hcp.ma/file/103036/)
7. [2024 Moroccan census](https://resultats2024.rgphapps.ma/superset/dashboard/0fbd169b-19e1-4338-a344-e58bb9a02a4d/?permalink_key=pmo6qLqylzY&standalone=true)
8. [Source](http://rgph2014.hcp.ma/file/166326/)
9. [2024 Moroccan census](https://www.hcp.ma/Population-legale-du-Royaume-du-Maroc-repartie-par-regions-provinces-et-prefectures-et-communes-selon-les-resultats-du_a3974.html)
10. GeoNames
11. BBC Things
12. Quora
13. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
14. [Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands](https://biblio.hiu.cas.cz/records/814c2d8b-e230-4ff5-b7ec-4b040400796f)
15. [Source](https://www.hcp.ma/Population-legale-du-Royaume-du-Maroc-repartie-par-regions-provinces-et-prefectures-et-communes-selon-les-resultats-du_a3974.html)