Description
Welcome to Quare, the educational podcast for young and old alike. Today, in the Geography category, our episode is dedicated to Morocco.
What is Morocco?
Morocco is a country in North Africa, at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Arab world. It is bordered by the Mediterranean to the north, the Atlantic to the west, Algeria to the east, and the Sahara to the south. Just 14 kilometres from Spain, separated by the Strait of Gibraltar — one of the busiest waterways in the world — Morocco is the African country closest to Europe.
What is Morocco known for?
For its labyrinthine medinas, colourful souks, the Sahara Desert, the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains, and its royal cities such as Fez, Marrakech, Rabat and Meknes. But also for its crafts, its cuisine, its riads and its hammams. Morocco is a country that engages all the senses.
What is the history of Morocco?
The first inhabitants were the Berbers, also known as Amazighs. Then came the Phoenicians, the Romans, and in the 7th century, the Arabs who brought Islam. Morocco was the cradle of great empires: the Almoravids, the Almohads and the Marinids. These dynasties left behind extraordinary monuments, such as the madrasas of Fez.
Was Morocco colonised?
Yes. At the beginning of the 20th century, Morocco was divided between France and Spain, which made it a protectorate. In 1956, Morocco regained its independence under King Mohammed V, a deeply respected figure who had been exiled by the French. His son Hassan II succeeded him, and Mohammed VI has reigned since 1999.
Is he the one who leads Morocco today?
Yes, Morocco is a constitutional monarchy. King Mohammed VI is head of state and holds very broad powers. There is a Parliament and a government, but the king remains the central figure in political life. He is also Commander of the Faithful, which gives him religious authority.
What language is spoken there?
Morocco is a multilingual country. Classical Arabic is the official language of institutions. Darija, the Moroccan Arabic dialect, is the everyday language. Tamazight, the Berber language, has also been an official language since 2011. French is widely used in education, the media and business. In the north, Spanish is still understood.
What currency is used?
The official currency is the Moroccan dirham.
What is Morocco's geography like?
Morocco is one of the most varied countries in Africa. To the north, the Rif is a lush mountain range. In the centre, the High Atlas crosses the country from east to west. Jbel Toubkal, at 4,167 metres, is the highest peak in all of North Africa. To the south lie the dunes of the Sahara. The longest river in Morocco is the Draa, stretching over 1,100 kilometres. Here is a fun curiosity: it flows largely through the desert and its bed is often completely dry! The Oum Errabia, about 550 kilometres long, rises in the Middle Atlas and flows into the Atlantic; it is the country's most developed river, with numerous hydroelectric dams.
What can you visit there?
Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and economic powerhouse, with nearly 4 million inhabitants. Many people are surprised to learn that it is not the capital — that is Rabat! Fez is the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco. Its medina, the old city, is one of the largest pedestrian areas in the world. You can visit the Chouara tannery, where leather is dyed in large round vats, just as it was in the Middle Ages.
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