Culture and Festivals

In addition to the fabulous climate and beautiful scenery, a major attraction of Morocco is its unique, remarkably intact and fascinating culture and history, a blend of Berber, Arabic and Jewish influences which provides a feast of the senses. 

The cultural history is evident across the whole country, with walled medinas, earth built Berber houses and kasbahs, former palaces and Roman ruins, a number of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

National and local festivals punctuate the Moroccan year and are intrinsic to Moroccan culture; dates vary annually as they are determined by the Muslim calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. Traditional music and rhythm are very much part of everyday life, most especially in August when weddings are commonplace.

The ubiquitous Moroccan souk (traditional markets) are found in every town and city. They are a particularly alluring sight on the weekly market day, stretching over substantial areas and offering a real insight into everyday Moroccan life as well as being an interesting place to shop and haggle.