TO THE TRAVELER: TOP FACTS ABOUT MOROCCO
The Kingdom of Morocco is an enchanting country located in the north of the African continent. Morocco has been invaded by many countries and rulers during different periods of history. The most recent invader was France, briefly Morocco even became part of the French Empire. The state was also ruled by the Romans and the Arab peoples throughout its history. Today, plus 10 more new facts about Morocco that will make you know and love this royal land even more.
MOROCCO IS NOT OFFICIALLY CALLED MOROCCO!
Did you know that the official full name of Morocco is “Kingdom of Morocco”? The official name came into being in March 1956 when French rule ended, although today most people abbreviate it to Morocco.
MOROCCO IS ALMOST AS BIG AS CALIFORNIA
Morocco covers an area of about 446550.21 square kilometers, which is about the size of California.
MOROCCO’S CAPITAL IS NOT ITS LARGEST CITY
You probably think that the capital of most countries is the largest city, but not in this case. The capital of Morocco is Rabat, which is only 116.9 square kilometers. And the largest city in Morocco is Casablanca, its size is about 219.9 kilometers.
MOROCCO HAS TWO OFFICIAL LANGUAGES
Unlike most countries with one main language, Morocco has two native languages. The first and most commonly associated with Morocco is Arabic. The Arabic dialect spoken in Morocco is known as Dariyya. The second and lesser known language of communication is Berber. Berber is used by most countries in North Africa because it is the place of origin. Morocco is still home to Berbers, which explains the language’s appeal.
THERE ARE NON-MOROCCANS LIVING IN MOROCCO
Berbers are descendants of the first people of Morocco, they are the pre-Arab race that inhabited northern Africa. They call themselves “Amazigh,” the plural being “Imazigen. According to statistics, more than half of Morocco’s population comes from Berbers.
THERE ARE ONLY TWO COLORS ON THE MOROCCAN FLAG
The Moroccan flag is red with a green star in the middle, used as a national symbol since 1915. The red background reflects the bravery, strength and endurance of the people, as well as the challenges they endured to preserve their country. There is a green star in the center of the flag. Why is it green? Because in Berber culture, green represents joy, love and happiness.
THE FAVORITE DRINK OF THE PEOPLE OF MOROCCO IS TEA
A fact you definitely didn’t know! Morocco is very fond of tea, this country is the home of a mixture of green and mint tea, known as “Maghribi Mint Tea”. Drinking tea in Morocco is a whole ceremony. In the home circle, tea is made exclusively by a man.
THE NATIONAL DELICACY OF COUSCOUS
Did you know that couscous is a staple food in North Africa, more specifically the national dish of Morocco? Couscous is so popular because it is cheap. The most amazing thing is the recipe of its preparation, after which it can be stored for months.
ARGAN OIL COMES FROM MOROCCO
Argan oil is mostly produced in Morocco. You may have come across this ingredient in cosmetic products such as conditioners or hair masks. And in Morocco, it is commonly used not only in cosmetics, but also as the main oil used in cooking.
KASBAH NATIONAL ARCHITECTURE
Have you heard of Kasbah? It is used to describe Medina, the Citadel, or any other fortress. A kasbah has many meanings, such as watchtower, fort, fortress, and old town. Literally, a kasbah is a group of buildings that make up a city. Some of the oldest Kasbahs in the world are found exactly and only in Morocco.
YOU CAN SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS:
Leave a Reply