How many UNESCO Sites can be found in Morocco?

Morocco is a country rich in cultural and historical heritage, with a total of nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each of these sites has been recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding value to humanity, and they offer a fascinating insight into Morocco’s diverse history and cultural identity. Let’s take a closer look at Morocco’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Fez Medina: The ancient city of Fez is home to one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world, known as the Fez Medina. This labyrinthine urban area is a treasure trove of historical monuments, traditional markets, and architectural wonders that reflect the city’s long and storied history.

Fez Medina:
The Medina of Fez, located in the city of Fez, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for being one of the oldest and largest medieval urban areas in the world. It is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture. It includes numerous mosques, madrasas (religious schools), palaces, and traditional houses. A fascinating destination for history buffs and those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience, the intricate labyrinthine streets and bustling souks (markets) within the medina showcase Fez’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

The medina of Marrakech: Marrakesh, Morocco’s ‘Red City’, is famous for its vibrant souks, palaces, and gardens. A fascinating blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian influences, the Medina of Marrakech has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

The medina of Marrakech, also known as the “Red City”, is a UNESCO-listed site characterized by its distinctive red buildings. It is a harmonious blend of architectural styles, reflecting centuries of Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences. The main attractions in the medina include the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Koutoubia mosque and the Bahia palace, each offering a unique insight into Marrakesh’s cultural and historical heritage.

The archaeological site of Volubilis: Located near the city of Meknes, the archaeological site of Volubilis is a Roman ruin containing the remains of an ancient Berber city. This well-preserved site provides an insight into the Roman presence in North Africa and is a testament to Morocco’s rich historical tapestry.

The archaeological site of Volubilis:
Volubilis, near the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, contains the remains of an ancient Roman settlement dating back to the 3rd century BC. The well-preserved ruins include impressive mosaics, temples and triumphal arches, providing an insight into the life of a flourishing Roman provincial town in North Africa.

The historic city of Meknes: Another imperial city, Meknes boasts a UNESCO-listed historic center. The city was the capital and seat of the powerful Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, leaving a legacy of magnificent architecture and fortifications.

The historic city of Meknes:
The historic city of Meknes is a former imperial city founded in the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail. The historic core of the city contains stunning examples of Islamic architecture, including the grand Bab Mansour Gate, the intricately designed Bab Berdaine and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Meknes showcases the grandeur and architectural achievements of the sultanate era.

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou: Ait-Ben-Haddou is a stunning fortified village on the ancient caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. It’s earthen architecture and picturesque setting have made it a popular location for films and television programs.

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou:
Ait-Ben-Haddou is a fortified village on an ancient caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Its traditional earthen buildings and defensive walls have made it a UNESCO-listed site and a popular filming location for movies and TV series, including Game of Thrones. This ksar (fortified village) offers a glimpse into Morocco’s architectural heritage and the region’s rich trading history.

Medina of Essaouira: The coastal town of Essaouira boasts a well-preserved medina with its distinctive blue and white buildings. This charming port city has a rich history as a former Portuguese trading post and offers a unique blend of cultures.

Medina of Essaouira:
Situated on the Atlantic coast, the medina of Essaouira is famous for its distinctive blue and white buildings and its fortified ramparts. Once known as Mogador, Essaouira was an important port for trade between Morocco and Europe. Today it is a charming seaside town where visitors can explore the historic ramparts, art galleries and lively souks.

Portuguese town of Mazagan (El Jadida): The coastal town of El Jadida is home to a well-preserved Portuguese fortress known as the Portuguese City of Mazagan. This historic site provides an insight into the history of the region during the Portuguese colonial period.

Portuguese town of Mazagan (El Jadida):
Known for its Portuguese fortifications, El Jadida was founded as a trading post by the Portuguese in the early 16th century. The Cité Portugaise, a well-preserved historic area, has bastions, churches and a cistern that show the influence of European architecture in Morocco during the Portuguese colonial period.

Rabat, modern capital and historic city: A shared heritage: As the capital of Morocco, Rabat offers an interesting juxtaposition of modern and historic elements. From its ancient ruins and medieval architecture to its modern government buildings, Rabat offers a shared heritage of Morocco’s past and present.

Rabat, modern capital and historic city: A shared heritage:
Rabat, the capital of Morocco, offers a unique blend of modernity and history. It is home to well-preserved ancient sites, including the Hassan Tower, the minaret of an unfinished mosque, and the Chellah necropolis, an ancient Roman site that was later used as a Merinid necropolis. The city’s historic core coexists harmoniously with modern government buildings, exemplifying Morocco’s shared heritage.

The cultural landscape of the argan tree: Closely linked to the argan tree, which is native to the region, is the cultural landscape of southwest Morocco. The landscape reflects the traditional methods of harvesting argan oil and shows the importance of this precious tree to local communities.

Exploring these UNESCO World Heritage sites in Morocco allows travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, cultural diversity, and unique landscapes. Morocco’s World Heritage Sites offer an extraordinary journey through time and culture, from ancient medinas and Roman ruins to fortified villages and natural wonders. Get to know More About History of Morocco