15 Surprising Things About Morroco
Did you know that Morroco is where you can experience the world's third friendliest country, hear the world's oldest spoken language, see the world's oldest ruling monarchy, and traverse the world's gateway to Africa?
I was surprised to learn that, too. Which is why I put together a list of 15 other things that might surprise you about Morroco.
ABOUT MARRAKECH
Marrakech (also Marrakesh) was established in 1062 and is Morroco's 2nd oldest city. Before that, the area had been inhabited by Berber farmers going back to neolithic times.
The medina, or old city, is a UNESCO world heritage site. It's full of bustiling souks (markets), and winding alleways, and buildings that are over 1000 years old.
The heart of Marrakech is Jemma el-Fnaa, the busiest square in Africa. This legendary square comes alive at night with locals, tourists, food stalls, souvenir vendors, snake charmers, and other questionable entertainment.
Outside of the medina, Marrakech is a planned, modern Western-style city. It was designed and built in 1914 by the French and is often referred to as Gueliz. You won't find any skyscrapers in Marrakech. Buildings are limited to five stories high.
Marrakech is emerging as a gambling hotspot in Africa. It hosts a number of tournaments which have become a global destination for poker fanatics worldwide.
Historical
Morroco is a diverse country in northern Africa with mountain, desert, and coastal landscapes.
Morroco is the oldest ruling monarchy in history without interruption (Japan's monarchy is older, but it's a figurehead only position).
Morroco is the only Arabic country not to fall to the Ottomans and was the last African country to fall under European colonialism. it was a French protectorate between 1912 and 1956.
Although an Islamic country, Morroco was once a sanctuary for Jewish communities stretching back to antiquity under the Roman empire following the dissolution of the Jewish state in 70 AD.
In 1777, Morroco became the first country to recognize the United States' independence from England.
Cultural
Morroco consistently ranks as the world's third friendliest country. Not surprising since Morroco has historically been a trading hub is referred to as the gateway to Africa.
Arabic and Tamazight are the official languages of Morocco. Tamazight is one of the Berber Languages which is the world's oldest spoken language. French is also widely spoken and English is growing in popularity.
Morroco is an Islamic country that's more liberal than some of its neighboring countries. Women don't have to wear a headscarf, but it's highly recommended to dress conservatively -- keeping shoulders and knees covered.
The call to prayer goes out, five times a day; however you should not enter a mosque if you don't practice Islam. Mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims.
SOCIOECONOMIC
There's not much of a middle class in Marrakech and there's a staggering gap between rich and poor. While most people would be considered poor by Western standards, the poverty rate is only 2.3% compared to 12% in the U.S.
The cost of living is low, making it a budget-friendly travel destination. Keep in mind that haggling is a way of life here. You will need to bargain to get the best prices.
Three of Morroco's major cities (Essaouira, Marrakech, Rabat) are led by women. Fatima-Zahra Mansouri, the mayor of Marrakech has been voted the 24th most influential woman in Africa.
