Morocco is one of the most diverse nations on the African continent. With a unique history, rich culture and beautiful places it’s easy to see why Morocco has long been a popular holiday destination. In this post we will be going over some of the most beautiful towns in Morocco.
Chefchaouen
known for its charming blue houses surrounded by the green Rif mountain scenery, Chefchaouen is located in the North of Morocco. Many Moriscos and Jews settled here after the Spanish Reconquista. Chefchaouen is a popular tourist destination for both Moroccans and foreign tourists many from Europe and North America. Because of its of its short distance from Tangier and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, Many Tourists from Spain flock to this charming town. The blue-rinsed houses and buildings of Chefchaouen make it so unique compared to other towns in Morocco. The old quarter of the town is heavily influenced by Islamic and Andalusian architecture, from the blue-painted walls and red-tiled roofs, to keyhole-shaped doorways and tiled passages winding through the city. Chefchaouen served as a Moorish escape for Muslims and Jews fleeing persecution and religious intolerance when Christians took over Spain. Throughout the centuries, the city grew and welcomed Jews and Christian converts alike.
Ifrane
Unlike any other city in Morocco Ifrane is Situated in the Middle Atlas mountains. Ifrane is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco but its beauty is not the typical one you will see in Morocco . Because of its high altitude Ifrane experiences snow in winter which gives it the feel of a Swiss alpine village. The location, the architecture, the cold weather and the beauty give the town the name of Morocco’s little Switzerland. The snowy winter makes Ifrane a popular destination for those who love to ski or simply enjoy the snow. Its cool summers attract Moroccans escaping the heat of surrounding cities like Fez and Meknes. Its European styled buildings come from the French influences since Ifrane used to be a gateway for the French colonists and their elite families . Few miles from Ifrane you will find the Michlifen ski area. In 1959 Al Akhawayn university which is an American curriculum based university opened its doors to student from all over Morocco. Ifrane is derived from the Berber word Caves.
Marrakech
One of Morocco’s imperial cities, Marrakech or the red city as Moroccans call it is the cultural center of Morocco. Marrakech is where modernity meets tradition. The city is divided into the Medieval town “Medina” and the Modern part which is a wetness that the city is keeping up with innovative practices of the 21st century. Marrakech receives tourists more than any other city in Morocco. Marrakech was founded over a thousand years ago. The city’s old architecture, religious diversity and unique historical vibe make it a UNESCO heritage site. Some of the most beautiful Islamic architecture can be found in Marrakech. Places like Koutoubia Minaret, Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa, Bahia Palace and so many other Architectural innovations can be found in Marrakech. Both Islam and Judaism helped shape the city as it is known today. Visitors can still find the Jewish cemetery and the Lazama synagogue which was built in the 15th century. Galleries, gardens, museums and centuries old riads showcase the talent of Moroccan artisans, architects and artist both local and international.
Tetouan
Home to another UNESCO heritage site Tetouan is an example multiculturalism, diversity and beauty. Due to its proximity to Spain, Tetouan welcomed thousands of Jews and Muslim refugees who fled the Christian takeover of Muslim Spain(Al Andalus) during the Spanish Reconquista. The fleeing Jews and Muslims brought their Andalusian architecture, culture and craftsmanship . Just like other Medieval towns in Morocco, visitors can explore the Kasbah that’s overlooking the town surrounded with panoramic mountain views. The historic value of Tetouan lies in its architecture which consist of Berber, Andalusian and Spanish influence. The authenticity of the city looks like it has not changed in centuries . Tetouan derives from the Berber word that literally means “Eyes”. This city used to be the Capital of Spanish Protectorate in Morocco. Just few miles from Europe it is easy to get to this mediterranean town from Gibraltar and other places as well.
Rabat
Morocco’s political and administrative capital. It is located on the Atlantic Ocean. Rabat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The modern city of Rabat draws inspiration from the North African and Andalusian Muslim heritage. The city mixes between European architecture and the influence of local, indigenous styles of decorative architecture . Visitors will quickly notice the balance between the urban plan of the modern city and the conservation of city’s old quarters. The wall that has fortified the city and the constantly stylish city is a Characteristic of contemporary Morocco 12th-century kasbah looking over the water. Rabat is where the Charm of the Kasbah(old town) meets the elegance of the modern town. In Rabat you will enjoy going through centuries old narrow streets taking you through picture-book blue and white houses, before you make it to gorgeous Andalusian gardens of the Kasbah’s former 17th-century palaces. Rabat is one of the imperial cities of Morocco, beatified with clean palm-lined boulevards, well kept and relatively free of traffic.
Tangier
Europe’s gateway to Africa, located on a bay of the Strait of Gibraltar about 17 miles from the southern tip of Spain, you can actually see Spain on a clear day. Once you set foot in Tangier you get a sense of exotic mystery, rich history, and fusion of Morocco, Spain and Portugal. Just like other cities in Morocco you can step from one era to another from Medina(medieval) to Ville nouvelle(modern town) . Tangier’s unique history was stamped by different cultures, and invading groups, Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Portuguese and Spanish. Being an international zone in the 20th century made it attract many European and American expats of whom are mainly writers, artists and spies in the 50s and 60s. Excellent road and train connections from other cities make Tangier an easy to get to destination
Fes
Morocco’s oldest imperial city, home to the world’s oldest university, the Qarawiyyin university (established in 859). It has an ancient walled city, which reminds many of its visitors to the walled city of Jerusalem. Fez is the medieval capital of Morocco founded by Idris I in 789, and a great city of Islamic civilization, architecture and history. Fez is considered one of the best-preserved old cities in the Muslim world. Walking through the Medina( old town), you are literally walking through 1,300 years of history and culture. This city hasn’t changed for centuries, life, culture and the way people do things have gone on unchanged. Fez is one of the top destinations in the world for tourists. Due to this exposure, Fez has become a melting pot of languages. Most residents, store owners, waiters and other workers know or understand Tamazight, Arabic, French, English, Spanish and German. They say, you haven’t been to Morocco if you haven’t been to Fes.
