Moroccan Tea

Morocco: An Overview

Morocco is an Arab country located in the far northwest of the African continent, with its capital being Rabat. Its largest city is Casablanca, which serves as the economic capital. Morocco is bordered to the north by the Mediterranean Sea, to the west by the Atlantic Ocean, and it is separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar. To the south, it is bordered by Mauritania. The country covers an area of approximately 710,850 square kilometers and has a population of about 34.38 million according to the 2015 census.

Tourist Attractions in Morocco

Morocco is considered one of the best destinations for tourism due to its stunning natural landscapes, numerous valleys, plains, rivers, and orchards. It also boasts beautiful coastlines along two of the world's major bodies of water: the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the country features a unique mix of desert landscapes interspersed with mountains and rivers, creating a diverse and captivating natural environment. Morocco's rich history and well-known families from ancient times add to its appeal. Visitors can also enjoy shopping in the country’s bustling markets, which are renowned for their locally made, mostly handcrafted products, as well as historical sites and recreational activities.

The Beauty of Morocco

Meknes:

Meknes, located next to lush green landscapes, is one of the most beautiful places in Morocco, reminiscent of Andalusian gardens. It features many beautiful contemporary buildings alongside historical ruins, museums, and intricately decorated gates, with many green domes distinguishing Moroccan architecture. Notable sites include Roman ruins, caves, palaces, and mosques. Meknes is also home to many elderly scholars who share the secrets of this historic city with their grandchildren.

Historic Streets:

Mohammed V Street, the largest and most beautiful street in the capital, is notable for its large central green square and the many palm trees, cafes, and shops lining it. Throughout Morocco, there are many historic streets characterized by climbing green plants on their walls and colorful flowers whose fragrance pervades the area, creating a distinctive atmosphere.

Handicrafts:

Moroccan museums are filled with handcrafted artifacts, such as those found in the Moroccan Art Museum in Tangier, the Archaeological Museum in Tetouan, and the Dar Batha Museum in Fez, which features many rugs and distinctive ceramics. Moroccan markets are rich in beautiful and diverse handmade crafts, including wooden carvings in Salé, Meknes, and Tetouan, and pottery in Fez. In Marrakech and Casablanca, you can find exquisite leather goods, such as the famous Moroccan shoes. Moroccans are known for their impressive skills in weaving carpets and colorful embroidery, with Moroccan attire, known for its draped capes, being a popular souvenir. Traditional silver jewelry and gold pieces are also made, including intricately crafted anklets and necklaces, especially in Fez.

Popular Arts:

Morocco is renowned for its vibrant folk arts, with Moroccan folklore being a distinctive and cherished form of expression. Tourists often try to learn and imitate these traditional performances. Moroccan folk songs and traditional music attract many visitors, and annual festivals celebrate Moroccan folklore and popular arts, making them a part of every Moroccan occasion.

Moroccan Cuisine:

Moroccan cuisine features dishes distinct from those of other Arab countries. It includes the famous Moroccan couscous, a traditional and essential meal. Moroccan sweets, such as melouza and kaab el ghazal, and special beverages like mint tea, are also popular. The country’s abundant seafood is a highlight, given its access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Travel and Exploration:

Morocco offers many tours that showcase the country’s beauty, such as dune rides surrounded by water and palm trees, horse festivals, and explorations of museums and historical sites in various cities. Visitors can also enjoy off-road adventures with 4x4 tours that cover much of Morocco. Special trips are available to Tangier, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, highlighting Morocco’s scenic beauty.

Kasbahs:

Morocco is home to many fortified cities built by the Portuguese, serving as welcoming points for visitors. Cities like Azemmour, Larache, Asilah, Safi, and Essaouira offer peaceful retreats for tourists. The Kasbah Trail provides a natural meeting point of diverse scenic landscapes, featuring golden sands, snowy mountain peaks, deep gorges ideal for running, and lush oases along the Draa River. The Dades Valley, known for its high-quality palm groves and flower gardens, is also part of this scenic route, particularly the roads leading to Ouarzazate and Errachidia.

The Four Imperial Cities:

Fez, Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat are Morocco’s four historic capitals. Each city served as the capital in different historical periods. The Thousand Kilometer Journey is a notable trip that takes visitors through these four historic capitals, showcasing unique features and details of each city. The journey also includes stops in Casablanca, Tangier, Agadir, Essaouira, and the Kasbah Trail, providing a memorable historical experience for visitors.