Ksar Sghir, also known as Ksar Seghir, is a rural commune located in the northern reaches of Morocco. Situated within the Fahs-Anjra province in the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, it occupies a strategic position on the Mediterranean coast. Historically known as Castillejo in Spanish and Alcácer-Ceguer in Portuguese, the village is positioned between the major hubs of Tangier and Ceuta. The commune is defined by its location on the right bank and at the mouth of the river that shares its name, serving as a gateway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean worlds.
The geography of Ksar Sghir is characterized by its coastal setting and the influence of the surrounding Jebala region. The landscape is defined by the meeting of the river and the sea, creating a distinct estuary environment. The terrain is largely influenced by the proximity to the Rif mountains, providing a rugged yet scenic backdrop to the Mediterranean shoreline. The area is strategically significant, situated in close proximity to the Tanger Med port complex, which has transformed the regional landscape while maintaining the commune's traditional coastal character.
The name Ksar Sghir, meaning "the small Ksar," reflects its historical identity as a fortified settlement. Throughout history, the site has been a point of interest for various powers due to its location on the Strait of Gibraltar. Its historical names—Castillejo and Alcácer-Ceguer—are remnants of the complex colonial and maritime history of the region. Today, the commune serves as a living testament to the cultural synthesis of the Jebala region, where local traditions remain deeply rooted in the daily life of its inhabitants.
As of 2024, the commune is home to a population of 17,125 residents. Life in Ksar Sghir is centered around the rhythms of the Mediterranean coast and the agricultural and maritime activities typical of the Fahs-Anjra province. The community maintains a strong connection to its rural roots while adapting to the modern economic developments occurring in the surrounding area, particularly those related to the nearby port infrastructure.
Ksar Sghir is primarily recognized for its strategic importance and its role as a transit point along the northern Moroccan coast. Visitors traveling between Tangier and Ceuta will find the commune to be a notable landmark. While it is currently developing its profile as a destination, its proximity to major maritime routes and its historical significance make it a point of interest for those exploring the northern coastline. The area is home to a military naval base, which underscores the ongoing strategic relevance of this coastal commune.
