Chefchaouen is a small town located in the northern region of Morroco. The town and area are steeped in rich tradition and history, but its most recognizable trait is the abundance of blue buildings located in Chefchaouen’s medina quarter.

Rumor has it, Jewish refugees introduced the blue color during the 1930s because the color symbolized the sky and heaven. The vibrant blue paint trend caught on and as time passed, more and more of the town’s buildings were painted in the same hue.

Continue on for some brilliant photos of this uniquely colorful North African city, captured by freelance photographer Claude Renault. For more of his work, make sure to follow him on Instagram at @clauderenault.