Moroccan Culture History & Cuisine

From International Business Wiki

Moroccan Culture

By: KJW

 is a country in North West Africa which borders  and the .  is a fairly new country only recently gaining it’s independence in the 1950’s from France. The primary language of  is Arabic, however, French is the main language used for commerce and government.  Moroccan culture is a very special combination of African, Muslim and European influences. The people of , also known as Moroccans, have a rich and diverse culture dating back to A.D. 46. It is known that most Moroccans can trace their heritage back to either Libyan and/or Ethiopian decent, before the 7 th century. Today’s vast majority of Moroccans can also trace their bloodlines back to early Arabs as well. 

is a very unique country where people work together and care for one another. This is likely due to the fact of its tribal origins. During its humble beginnings, before any antiquated systems were formed, Moroccans governed themselves through various tribes. Area tribes set the social standards of the culture, some of which still stand today. 

Spending time in one will definitely experience a genuine acceptance from locals as long as they display an honest integrity and a willingness to accept others and their differences. Moroccans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. One could walk the streets of and find no problem finding someone to socialize with. Moroccans are very social people and love to talk. If a traveler wanted to experience the more hustle and bustle parts of on would have to look no further than the Souks or “marketplaces”. It is known that Souks are not difficult to find in and it is where you would most likely get that bargain you’ve been looking for.

Moroccan culture is considered much more laid back than other Muslim based countries. This abnormality is believed to be because of the cultures European influence. Examples of this include how women do not have to completely cover up all the time while in pubic. A women in and go to the beach or resort, where clothing which exposes her arms and legs, and not be viewed as offensive.

is also a very religious country, 98% of its general populace is Sunni Muslim. Any person is more than welcome to tour the beauty of this African country, however, no one outside the Muslim religion is allowed into their Mosques. Mosques are known as sacred religious holy ground. This is a strict norm, one which is very rarely broken. 

Moroccan Cuisine is another celebrated part of Moroccan culture. Travelers from all around love the rich diverse concoctions that represent what is known as Moroccan Cuisine. It is said that the best way to experience true Moroccan cuisine is the win the favor a local and get invited to an authentic home cooked Moroccan meal. One is said to go on a rollercoaster ride of taste sensations when embarking on a Moroccan dish.

All and all is a very genuinely hospitable country. One could really get lost in its worldliness, history and culture. Whether it is by walking through a busy Souk or simply walking the narrow streets, is a place where everyone can feel at home. Besides, nothing makes a visitor (from anywhere) more at home than a well cooked meal.

References

Morocco.com (2007). Retrieved Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://www.morocco.com/cuisine/moroccan-dishes/

Sosa, Elain (2007). Sally’s Place: Ethnic Cuisine: by Elain Sosa. Retrieved Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://www.sallys-place.com/food/cuisines/morocco.htm

Costasur (2007). Retrieved Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://maroc.costasur.com/en/culture.html

Macro Tour Travel (2007). Retreived Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://travel.maroctour.com/culture.php

Morocco.com (2007). Retrieved Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://www.morocco.com/culture/people/

Infoplease.com (2007). Retreived Oct. 20th, 2007 from http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107800.html

State Department (2007). Retreived Oct. 20th, 2007 http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5431.htm

The Guide (2007). Retreived Oct. 20th, 2007 http://www.africaguide.com/country/morocco/