Morocco sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

An amazing country, which miraculously mixes traditions of Islam and European culture, Morocco never ceases to amaze travelers with its unforgettable places of interest. Simply every city in this ancient country keeps numerous mysteries and secrets. The capital of the country alone is home to more than a hundred of interesting buildings, bazaars and museums. Tourists are recommended to visit such sights as Kasbah of the Udayas, Mulay Slimane Mosque and Moulay El Mekki Mosque, ruins of Yaqub al-Mansur Mosque, the Royal Palace and tombs of Kings Hasan II and Mohammed V. When it comes to culture facilities of the country, the most famous ones are the Museum of Ancient History, the Museum of Moroccan Art, the Museum of Archaeology, Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Art Gallery.

The city of Marrakech is an important tourist destination. The so-called historic part of the city is naturally the most attractive one for tourists. The central part of the city is the location of the Koutoubia Mosque, the building of which took place in the 12th century. The beautiful minaret, the height of which is 77 metres, remains the main peculiarity of this mosque. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is located right in front of it. All biggest streets of Marrakech start from the square. During a walk here you will see beautiful palaces, museums and mosques, but large and bustling bazaars still remain the main distinctive feature of the city. Local bazaars are usually bound to a specific type of a product, and one can find virtually anything there. There are bazaars that specialize in spices, leather goods, markets for historical artefacts and clothes, and, of course, food bazaars.

The city of Casablanca is a wonderful place where visitors will find different entertainment. This is a large port center and a famous historic region. The square of United Nations is considered the heart of the historic district. Old main historic landmarks are located around the square. These are Notre Dame de Lourdes Church, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Big Mosque of Hasan II. Don't forget to visit numerous parks, during a walk in which you will be able to see tenths of wonderful mosques. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The suburbs of the city are also a very interesting place from a historic point of view as they are the location of the ancient settlement of Anfa. Visitors will see here ruins of houses, ancient temples and squares. Archaeological excavations never stop on the territory of the settlement. The city of Fez is also rich in places of interest. This is the former capital of Morocco and the main cultural center of the country. There are several old protective facilities in the city and other important landmarks, such as Dar Batha Palace, Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Andalusian Mosque and the tomb of Idris II.

History and Entertainment

In the 10th century BC, the territory of Morocco was a place where the old country of Carthage was located. In the 2nd century, it was conquered by the Roman Empire. In the subsequent centuries, the lands saw multiple conquests of vandals and then of the Byzantine Empire. The first Arab country was formed in the territory of Morocco in the late 8th century. Later, it became a heart of the large empire. This empire consisted of territories of present Tunis, Algeria and Libya.

The first half of the 15th century was characterized by an active Spanish and Portuguese expansion. As a result, a lot of large cities were conquered. Only at the beginning of the 17th century, the Moroccan country entered the development stage. It flourished during the ruling of Ahmad al-Mansur. For several hundred years, the prosperity alternated with the downfall and internal conflicts. The war with Spain in 1859-1860 was a serious challenge for Morocco. At the beginning of the 20th century, the country was conquered by France and gained independence from it only in 1956.

The main value of modern Morocco is its inimitable national culture. The country is characterized by a special rhythm of life and many interesting traditions. The inimitable culture is reflected in all aspects of the Moroccans’ life. Many people associate Morocco with picturesque noisy markets, during a stroll along which you can sink into an incomparable national atmosphere. Here, you can smell spices and coffee. On the market, you can buy luxurious hand-made carpets and jewels in the Moroccan style.

Beach resorts of Morocco, the best of which is Agadit, deserve a special attention. At beach resorts, vacationers can take advantage of services offered by upscale thalassotherapy and spa centers. You can always supplement your usual beach recreation with the care for your health. The resort of Oualidia – the location of the beautiful lagoon – is very popular with vacationers having children.

The important component of the national culture is the unique Moroccan cuisine. At national restaurants, the visitors can taste traditional couscous, a lot of lamb and mutton dishes, soups and traditional pastry. The local cuisine is distinguished by the use of spices. Also, exquisite wines are produced in Morocco.