Discover Morocco:

Morocco is located on the North West coast of Africa and has ports in the North Atlantic Ocean as well as the Mediterranean Sea. It is the third most populous Arab country, separated only by 9 miles from Europe it is also a gateway for travelers into Africa. Morocco is a country of inspiration and romantic allure for the westerners. Its greatest charm lies in the labyrinths of the imperial cites; Rabat, Meknes, Marrakech and Fes.furtheremore Morocco is home to an amazing rich architectural tradition and its medieval cities, Roman ruins, Berber fortresses and beautiful Islamic monuments are among the best examples of their kind in the world.

Attractions of Morocco:

Morocco is a land rich in natural beauty and unforgettable places that are both fascinating to visit and intriguing to uncover. For visitors who want to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture and history there are a plenty of places to see, as the ancient city of Asila, the Grottoes of Hercules. Equally memorable is the Moroccan landscapes, which is framed by several impressive destinations such as the Sahara Desert and the stunning mounting ranges such as the High, Mid and the anti Atlas. Moreover the Chefchaouen Mountains.

Explore the Wonders of Morocco's World Heritage Sites:

World Heritage Sites are sites in certain countries that have been deemed by UNESCO to be of outstanding cultural or natural importance. This value is universal and so preserving such sites is seen as being beneficial to the entire world's population. Most of the cultural heritage sites are historical in nature and provide evidence of the way early cultures lived their day-to-day lives. These sites provide a wealth of information and form part of a world of history that would remain dead and buried were it not for the discovery and study of such amazing archaeological ruins. There are as many as eight designated World Heritage Sites in Morocco.

Archaeological Site of Volubilis:

These ancient Roman ruins were originally part of the Mauritanian capital that was established in the area in 3 BC. In its prime Volubilis was graced with many stunning buildings and although today all that remains are some ruins, the remaining structures and intricate mosaics have been preserved as a reminder of a city that once thrived.

Historic City of Meknes:

Founded in the 11th century as a military settlement, this great city developed into a place of great beauty, filled with superb examples of Spanish-Moorish styled architecture, much of which is still present today. Parts of the city, such as the enormous doors of the city, were constructed from materials looted from Volubilis.

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou:

Lying along the ancient caravan route between the Sahara Desert and the city of Marrakech, this amazing group of earthen buildings is a striking example of the ancient and practical architecture used in the southern parts of Morocco. Situated in the Quarzazate province, the buildings are surrounded by high, defensive walls which are reinforced by corner towers. This uniquely beautiful site has been used in a number of movies, including the Jewel of the Nile, the Living Daylights, Gladiator and Alexander.

The Medina of Essaouira:

This once humble fishing village developed into a strategically significant seaport which was used by pirates in the 1500s. Within the city's fortified walls, the Medina of Essaouira has been preserved and many buildings remain much the same as when they were constructed back in the 18th century.

Medina of Fez:

With a history that goes right back to the 9th century, the Medina of Fez is considered to be Morocco's cultural and spiritual centre. The Medina consists of numerous beautifully preserved historical buildings, including mosques, palaces, residential home and squares with fountains, all set in a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways which are fascinating to explore.

Medina of Marrakech:

The Medina of Marrakech was established in the 11th century with successive occupants leaving their mark on the fascinating architecture of the city. The Almoravids built some of the most impressive structures in the Medina, including the Kasbah, a number of magnificent mosques and an open-air theatre which still stands today. The tombs of several prominent figures are located in the Medina of Marrakech and attract visitors from all over the world.

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS:

January 1: New Year (Gregorian calendar)

January 11: Independence Manifesto

May 1: Labor Day

May 23: National Day (Amendment of the Constitution)

August 14: Commemoration of Oued Eddahab

August 20: Revolution of the King and the People

August 21: Birthday of King Mohammed VI Eid Al Milad

November 6: Commemoration of the Green March

November 18: Independence Day

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS:

Rellegious holidays are observed for two working days,since they are based on the lunar calendar,their dates vary eah year and are fixed after the sight of the moon.

1st of Moharram: New Year (Muslim calendar)

12th of Rabi Al Awal: Aid El Mawlid (Birth of the Prophet Mohamed)

1st of Shawwal: Aid El Fitr (end of Ramadan)

10th of Dhu Al Hijja: Aid El Adha (Commemoration of Abraham's sacrifice

Facts:

Full country name: Kingdom of Morocco

Area: 710,850sq km

Population: more than 31million

Capital city: Rabat

People: 55% Arab, 44% Berber, 0.7% foreigners, 0.2% Jews

Languages: Arabic (officially) with Berber dialects, as well as French, Spanish and English.

Religion: Islam