Where is Morocco? Is Morocco part of the Arabian Peninsula (West Asia) or the African Continent? This question has been popping up ever since this country came into the public eye at the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Later tonight, they will face the French giants in the semifinals.
The Kingdom of Morocco is a sovereign state in North Africa. Since the founding of the first Moroccan state in AD 788, it has been ruled by many dynasties, with the Alaouite dynasty, the current ruling dynasty, gaining power in 1631.
Morocco was also the cultural center of the medieval Islamic world. At that time, Islamic scholars from various parts of the Arab world gathered here to discuss religion and science. This country is associated with a rich history and culture which makes it a unique place worth visiting.
Here are 10 of the most interesting facts about Morocco, quoted from the World Atlas.
10. Has the highest ski resort in Africa
Located about 80 km from Marrakesh in Morocco, Oukaïmeden is the highest ski resort in Africa. This resort is located in the Atlas Mountains at an elevation of between 2590 meters and 3200 meters. This ski resort has six ski lifts and other facilities to enjoy the skiing experience.
9. Place of the oldest university in the world
Morocco is home to the oldest university in the world which is still operating today. Al Quaraouiyine University is located in the city of Fez in Morocco. The college was founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, the learned daughter of a wealthy merchant.
For a long time, the university served as a leading educational and spiritual center in the Arab Muslim world. Many well-known Arab scholars have taught at this university. Today, the university is part of the state university system in Morocco. The study of Islamic law and religion is the main focus of this university.
8. Ibn Battuta was from Morocco
The famous Islamic scholar and explorer, Ibn Battuta, hails from Morocco. He lived in the 14th century and traveled to many parts of the world including North Africa, the Horn of Africa, South, Central and Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
He recorded all his travels which are now priceless historical treasures and revealed many things about medieval civilization.
7. Morocco was founded by relatives of the Prophet Muhammad
Idris I founded the Idrisid dynasty which prepared the basis for Morocco's future independent state. Idris I was the great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. In 786 AD, Idris I took refuge in Morocco after fleeing the battlefield of the Battle of Fakhkh.
6. The oldest human statue was found in Morocco
Venus of Tan-Tan is a 6 cm long human-shaped quartzite stone discovered in 1999 on the north bank of the Draa River in Morocco.
This archaeological study revealed that the artifacts date from the Middle Acheulean period which is around 300 thousand to 500 thousand years ago. However, according to one of the archaeologists, these boulders formed humans as a result of weathering and natural erosion.
5. Morocco has a valley of roses
The M'Goun Valley in Morocco, known as the Vallée des Roses. Every year, 3,000 to 4,000 tons of wild rose are produced in this valley. This valley of roses is important to the local economy.
Local women pick the roses and sell them to cooperatives located in the area. Most of these roses are used by French perfume companies and the rest is used to produce rose water, soap and other beauty products by local companies.
4. The busiest city square in Africa
Located in the Moroccan district of Marrakesh, Jemaa el-Fnaa is the busiest square in Africa. Both locals and tourists flock to this square.
Jemaa el-Fnaa offers a glimpse into the cultural life of Moroccans. Chleuh dancers, storytellers, magicians, traditional medicine sellers and snake charmers provide entertainment in this square.
Toward evening, many food stalls selling local food. In addition, there is Souk Marrakesh, a traditional market that sells various needs of local residents and tourists. This area also features parks, cafes, and hotels.
3. Rich in natural wonders
Morocco is not only rich in history and culture, but also has many natural wonders. The country's landscape is extremely varied and includes coastlines on the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, the high snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains, and vast stretches of the Sahara Desert.
2. Has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Morocco is one of the largest centers of tourism in North Africa. Political stability has fueled the growth of tourism in the country.
The government of his country is also interested in further promoting tourism in Morocco. The country has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each of these sites has great historical, cultural and architectural value which makes them worth visiting.
1. Red City
Marrakech is Morocco's fourth largest city. The city has a rich history, architecture and culture. Marrakesh is one of the country's most important imperial cities.
Ali ibn Yusuf, a king from the Almoravid dynasty built red walls to guard the city. Many red buildings were also built within the city. Due to the dominance of these colors, this city in Morocco is nicknamed the City of Ochr or the Red City.