Surrounding Essaouira's UNESCO World Heritage medina are its 18th-century walls, or ramparts. On the northern and western flanks, these ramparts protect the medina from the crashing Atlantic waves, and are accessible from rue Skala. This section of the ramparts is called Skala de la Kasbah, and a climb up the steps to the top platform -- with a line of Portuguese brass cannons still pointing out to sea -- and its northern bastion, Bab Ljhad, offers a fantastic view of both the medina and the ocean, and is a popular meeting point for the town's youngsters. Built into the Skala de la Kasbah are a number of wood workshops. The platform is always accessible, but Bab Ljhad closes at sunset.