Moroccan Community App

The official language of Morocco is Arabic. Arabic is widely spoken and used in government institutions, education, media, and business throughout the country.

However, Morocco is a multilingual country, and other languages are also spoken, such as Amazigh (Berber), French, and Spanish. Amazigh has official recognition alongside Arabic and is used in some government institutions and educational settings.

French has historically been an important language due to Morocco’s colonial history, and it continues to be widely spoken, especially in business and higher education. Spanish is also spoken in northern regions of the country, particularly in cities like Tangier and Tetouan.

The majority of Moroccans identify as Muslims. Islam is the dominant religion in Morocco, and it plays a significant role in the country’s culture, society, and everyday life.

The constitution of Morocco declares Islam as the state religion and the King holds the title of “Commander of the Faithful” and serves as the religious leader.

The Moroccan population predominantly follows Sunni Islam, specifically the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence. However, there are also small communities of other religious groups in the country, such as Christians, Jews, and adherents of indigenous beliefs.

Yes, generally speaking, Moroccans are people who are from Morocco. “Moroccans” refers to individuals who hold Moroccan citizenship or have a direct connection to the country, such as being born in Morocco or having Moroccan ancestry.

However, it’s important to note that there may be Moroccans who reside outside of Morocco due to various reasons, such as migration, work, or study abroad. Nevertheless, their connection to Morocco, either through nationality or heritage, remains.

Morocco is renowned for its rich and flavorful cuisine, which blends influences from Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Here are some famous Moroccan dishes:

• Tagine
  A signature Moroccan dish named after the clay pot in which it is cooked. Tagine typically consists of slow-cooked meat (such as chicken, lamb, or beef) or vegetables combined with aromatic spices, herbs, and fruits like apricots or prunes.
• Couscous
  A staple dish made from semolina grains, steamed to perfection, and served with a variety of vegetables, meat (such as lamb or chicken), and a flavorful broth. Couscous is often considered Morocco’s national dish.
• Pastilla (Bastilla)
  A unique and elaborate savory-sweet pastry dish. It features layers of thin pastry filled with shredded chicken or pigeon meat, aromatic spices, almonds, and eggs. The top is dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
• Harira
  A traditional Moroccan soup – often enjoyed during Ramadan and festive occasions. Harira is a hearty and comforting soup made with a tomato base, lentils, chickpeas, meat (usually lamb), and a blend of aromatic spices.

Morocco is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are some famous landmarks and tourist attractions in Morocco:

• Marrakech
  Known as the “Red City,” Marrakech is famous for its bustling souks (markets), the historic Medina (old town), and the iconic Jardin Majorelle.
• Jardin Majorelle
  This beautiful garden in Marrakech was designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. It is known for its vibrant blue buildings and exotic plant species.
• Fes
  Fes is one of the oldest imperial cities in Morocco, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali, the oldest walled city in the world.
• Chefchaouen
  This picturesque town is famous for its blue-painted streets and buildings. It offers a unique and charming atmosphere, nestled in the Rif Mountains.
• Sahara Desert
  The vast Sahara Desert stretches across Morocco, offering breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to experience camel trekking and spending a night in a desert camp.

Morocco is home to several famous individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. Here are a few notable Moroccans:

1. Ibn Battuta (1304-1368)
   Born in Tangier, Ibn Battuta was a renowned traveler and explorer. He embarked on a journey that covered more than 120,000 kilometers, visiting many parts of the Islamic world, including Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. His travelogue, “Rihla,” is considered one of the greatest travel narratives in history.
2. Fatima al-Fihri (800s)
   Fatima al-Fihri, from Fes, Morocco, is credited with founding the University of Al Quaraouiyine in Fes, which UNESCO and the Guinness World Records recognize as the oldest continuously operating degree-granting university in the world.
3. Leo Africanus (1488-1554)
   Born as Al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Wazzan al-Fasi, Leo Africanus was a Moroccan diplomat and traveler. He is famous for his book “Description of Africa,” a comprehensive geographical and ethnographic account of the African continent, which provided valuable information about Africa to the European Renaissance.
4. Abdellatif Laâbi (1942-present)
   Laâbi is a prominent Moroccan poet, writer, and human rights activist. His works often address themes of love, exile, political repression, and the struggle for freedom. He has received numerous international awards for his contributions to literature.