traditions of Morocco

Get to Know About the culture, customs and traditions of Morocco

The history of Morocco is linked to that of the Berber people who repelled the ancient Roman colonizers and then survived several Islamic dynasties. Over the centuries, several groups have left their mark on the country, whose influence is evident in the diverse culture. The culture of Morocco is as diverse as the landscape. However, despite the heterogeneous culture and ethnicity, the country managed to maintain unity. In addition to the Berbers, the culture of Morocco has been influenced by Arabs, Phoenicians, Sub-Saharan Africans and Romans among other groups. The culture can differ from region to region and is especially evident in cuisine, art, clothing, music, and clothing.

Overview of Moroccan culture

The culture of Morocco is a mixture of ethnic traditions and religion, reflecting Berber, African, Arab and Jewish influences. The majority of the population are Berbers and Arabs, while at least 30% of the population are Amazigh speakers. Berber influence is most visible in the wide range of activities and lifestyles of the Moroccan people. Although the cuisine differs from region to region, Berber spices are mainly used. The use of fresh fruits and vegetables is mainly due to the country’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. Moroccan music is characterized by several traditional instruments, mostly of Arabic and Amazigh origin. It is the birthplace of Andalusian classical music, which is spread throughout North Africa.

languages And Religion

Most people in Morocco are Berbers and Arabs. The official languages ​​are Berber and Arabic. French is also widely spoken, except in the northern region where Spanish dominates. English is mostly spoken in major tourist cities such as Marrakech and other cities in the north. Islam is the main religion in the country and forms the basis for most families. People insist on unity in the family, and children are taught to take care of their parents when they grow old. Thus, there are very few nursing homes in Morocco. Constitutionally, Islam is the state religion, the vast majority of which belongs to the Sunni Muslim group. Christianity is the second largest religious group in Morocco. However, most Christians are foreigners. Other religions include Judaism and the Baha’i faith.

 Traditional Moroccan clothing

The traditional Moroccan dress, for both men and women, is the djellaba, a long, loose, hooded fabric with long sleeves. The hood has a protective cover from the sun or cold depending on the weather. On special occasions, men wear bernuse or red caps, commonly called fezzes, while women wear caftans. The difference between a kaftan and a djellaba is the hood, which the kaftan does not have. The women’s djellaba is brightly colored, and the caftans are decorated with ornaments. Men’s djellaba are mostly solid and neutrally dyed. The kaftan is synonymous with elegance and style and can be made up of multiple layers known as Takeshita. It can be either dressed or dressed as casual wear. The caftan traces its origins to the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century. The youth in Morocco are gradually abandoning their traditional clothing for Western clothing. 

Moroccan wedding

A Moroccan wedding is one of the most famous events in the country. Before the wedding day, the groom is expected to give his bride gifts including sugar and henna. From two days to the big day, the bride must visit the traditional hamam (sauna) with her relatives for purification. In the sauna, the bride and family mostly sing traditional songs. The next event is the use of henna, where a professional paints the appropriate symbols and patterns on the hands and feet of the bride. The wedding ceremony lasts at least 4-8 hours. During the wedding, the Negafa (make-up artist) is tasked with ensuring the bride’s elegance throughout the day. The couple often sits on a traditional, decorative chair called Amariah. Weddings are considered a social event that is often characterized by a lot of food, drink and dancing that can go on until late into the night.

Moroccan food

Moroccan food is usually well prepared and very detailed. The most important thing about cooking is that you know how to cook with spices. Moroccan cuisine depends mainly on interactions with other cultures and peoples over time. The cuisine is generally a mixture of Arab, Mediterranean, and Andalusian cuisine with some European influences. The basis of this cuisine is Mediterranean ingredients: fruit, vegetables, and meat. Cumin, oregano, and mint are often used. Ras El Hanout is prepared by mixing 27 other spices. The main Moroccan dish is couscous, consisting of ground durum wheat semolina. Beef and lamb are commonly eaten among the red meats. Other common dishes are pastilla, Harira and Tanja. Mint green tea is the most popular drink in Morocco. Preparing mint tea is an art and drinking it with family and friends is a daily tradition. The tea is stored in special teapots that allow it to be poured evenly into small glasses from above.

Moroccan art

Moroccan art has been influenced by other cultures and peoples. However, Berbers and Arabs are credited for creating an incredible art scene in the country. Their architecture includes the famous red Kasbah, which was inhabited by the ruling class. Crafts are decorated with carved doors with unique patterns and colorful carpets. Contemporary Moroccan art is also inspired by traditional Berber art and Islamic influences. One intriguing Islamic tiled mosaic is the Kellige, which began to flourish in the 14th century. Most of the houses were decorated with Kellij as a statement of wealth and class. Check our Tours