Asilah or Arzila is a city situated on the northwest tip of Morocco with a history back to 1500 B.C.

The Phoenicians used the city as a trading site. The city was conquered by the Portuguese during the 15th century. John III decided to abandon it because of an economic crisis in 1549. In 1692, the town was recaptured by the Moroccans under the leadership of Moulay Ismail. (14th century - 15th century - 16th century - other centuries) As a means of recording the passage of time, the 15th century was that century which lasted from 1401 to 1500. ... This is a current Biography collaboration of the week! Please help improve it to featured article standard. ... Events July - Ketts Rebellion Francis Xavier arrives in Japan. ... Moulay Ismail the Bloodthirsty (1675-1727) was a Moroccan ruler. ...

Asilah served as a base for pirates in the 19th and 20th centuries.

A major plan to restore the city was undertaken in 1978. It is now a popular seaside resort.