Explore Fascinating Morocco
Morocco boasts a fusion of Berber, Arab, and French cultures with touches of Spanish and Portuguese thrown in, offering a unique blend of traditions and customs that you’ll find reflected in its architecture, music, and cuisine. You’ll find Moroccans to be warm and hospitable, making social interactions a common occurrence.
Our recent trip to Morocco was planned for ten days traveling around the country and covering 1,200 miles. The trip started in Casablanca and finished in Marrakech with visits to Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, camping in the Sahara, crossing the High Atlas Mountains, and stops in Ouarzazate and the beach town of Essaouira.
Casablanca • The economic hub, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and serves as its economic and business center, influencing commerce across the region. A cultural melting pot, the city boasts a unique blend of Arab, Berber, European, and African cultures, reflected in its diverse cuisine and architecture.
Rabat • One of Morocco’s four imperial cities, rich in history and architecture, reflecting the influences of various dynasties. The capital city, Rabat showcases a blend of modernity and tradition, making it one of the cleanest and safest cities in the country.
Chefchaouen • Often referred to as the “Blue City,” it is renowned for its stunning blue-washed buildings creating a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen serves as a gateway to beautiful mountain scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fes • Known as the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco, is often referred to as the ‘Mecca of the West’ and the ‘Athens of Africa’. The city features historic architecture, notably the extensive medina, which is one of the best-preserved old towns in the Arab-Muslim world.
High Atlas Mountains • The most prominent section of the Atlas range, running diagonally across Morocco and reaching heights over 12,000 feet. The region is primarily inhabited by the Berber people who engage in agriculture and pasturing livestock in the range’s fertile valleys.
Ouarzazate • Often referred to as the ‘door of the desert,’ serves as a gateway to the Sahara and offers stunning scenery, including palm groves and vast desert landscapes. Known for its film industry, Ouarzazate is nicknamed ‘Africa’s Hollywood,’ featuring famous sites like the Kasbah Taourirt and Ait Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Essaouira • Formerly known as Mogador, it is a port city with a rich history, rebuilt in its current form by Mohammed III in 1764 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 18th-century architecture. The city is known for its unique multicultural environment where Muslims and Jews coexisted, featuring 37 synagogues interspersed among mosques, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Offering coastal charm, Essaouira’s bustling medina, maze-like streets, and lively vibe create an artsy atmosphere that attracts visitors seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
Marrakech • An ancient city known as one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, featuring a UNESCO World Heritage Site medina filled with rich history and culture. The city is famous for its vibrant souks, Jemaa el-Fna square, and remarkable structures like the Kutubiyya Mosque, creating a unique cultural atmosphere.
Key Definitions
Medina – A medina in Morocco refers to the old, historical part of a city, characterized by narrow streets, bustling markets, and traditional architecture. It often serves as the cultural and social heart of the city.
Casbah – The term ‘casbah’ refers to a fortified part of a city, often featuring a citadel and historic buildings, especially in North Africa.
Souk – a marketplace or a street market, commonly found in cities like Marrakech, known for a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of goods. It plays a vital role in the social and economic life of Moroccan communities. Traditionally, souks have been crucial for trade and cultural exchange, serving as centers for commerce and social interaction among locals and travelers.
Oasis – In an arid landscape an area with access to water, either a stream, river or well. Morocco is blessed with a number of large oases. In the south of Morocco, in the region of Tinghir-Ouarzazate, Zagora, is the largest Oasis in the world. It is a breathtakingly beautiful landscape that combines the desert with flowing water, green islands and rich valleys.
USEFUL LINKS FOR ADDITIONAL MOROCCO INFORMATION
You’ll discover lots of worthwhile and interesting travel information on The Intentional Travelers, and the best way to find what you’re looking for is to SEARCH here…
The Intentional Travelers 