MOROCCO

Located in North-Western side of North Africa, in the region known as Maghreb, Morocco borders the Western Sahara to the south, Algeria to the south-east and Mauritania to the south-west. It is bound by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and by the Mediterranean Sea to the north.

The total area of the country extends on territory of about 458,000 square kilometers, i.e. almost 1.5 times the size of Italy.

More than 31 million inhabitants

The capital city of Morocco is Rabat.

Casablanca, Tangier, Fez, Marrakech, Essaouira, Agadir.

International Airport Oujda.

Morocco boasts a millenary history and the richness of its old finds, some of which dating back to the Roman Empire, are a clear evidence of it. In the beginning the country was inhabited for centuries mainly by autochthonous ethnic groups. Then the region fell to the Phoenicians, the Greeks and the Romans.
The Arabs conquered the country around the 7th century AD and imposed not only their power but also their Islamic religion. Morocco was then ruled by several dynasties, such as the Idrisid Dynasty, the Almoravids and the Almohads. The Idrisids, who were descendants of Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, remained in power up to early 900, while the Almoravids, a congregation of Muslims, spread over the area during the 11th century. One century later the Almohads - Berbers coming from the Anti Atlas region - reigned over a wide area including not only Morocco but also other countries in the northern Africa as well as part of Spain and Portugal. After a period of conflicts between Arabs and Berbers, the Western penetration started. Around the mid of the 17th century the Alaouite Dynasty, which also the current Moroccan royal family belongs to, gained control. The modern history of the country was shaped by the struggles among different powers that ended up around 1912 with the negotiations that made Morocco a protectorate of France. In 1942 Morocco was occupied by the Allied troops. In the same period the Moroccan troops, joining the France Libre army of General De Gaulle, took part to the allied campaigns in Italy, France and Germany. After the Second World War the Moroccan nationalists founded an action committee and the national Independence Party. Negotiations started in 1955 and the following year France acknowledged the independence of Morocco, ratified also by the Spanish Government. Two years later the Sultan Mohamed ibn Yusuf was proclaimed king under the name of Mohamed V and after his death in 1961 he was succeeded by his son, Hassan II. In 1962 the country adopted a Constitution conferring wide powers to the king and the first national elections took place the following year. Some years later, more precisely in 1996, the king chose his son, Sidi Mohamed, as his successor and in 1997 he presented a new Constitution that was then approved also by the opposition. After his death in July 1999, his son Sidi Mohamed ascended to the throne under the name of Mohammed VI.

The 18th of November, the Independence Day, known in Morocco as 'Eid Al Istiqula'.

Constitutional Monarchy, the Head of State is King Re Mohammed VI.

The official language is classical Arabic, but also Berber is very widespread, mostly in rural areas, and French is widely used. People speaking good Italian may be found in the main tourist areas.

Islam is the most professed religion in Morocco, but there are also some small Jewish and Christian minorities.

The time zone is one hour behind Italy. When in Italy the Daylight Saving Time is in use, the difference is two hours.

Italian citizens travelling for tourism purposes for less than 90 days are required only to hold a passport with at least 6-month remaining validity. The travellers who go for a package tour, either individual or in group or through a tour operator, may enter the country just holding an identity card valid for travel abroad and the hotel booking voucher.

The country's monetary unit is the Moroccan Dirham. Considering the present exchange rate a holiday in Morocco is still rather economical for Italian tourists: it always depends on the kind of holiday, of course.

CHECK THE CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE

The main international credit cards are accepted in all major hotels and allow also cash withdrawals at the automated teller machines located in the most important cities and tourist destinations. In general they can be used also in shops and in some souks markets.

No vaccination is required to enter the country unless you arrive from places where the yellow fever is endemic.

Morocco enjoys a changeable climate which depends on the area. Influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, the Northern part of the country experiences a temperate climate during the summer and a mild weather during the winter time. The Atlas region is subject to altitude and the seasonal ranges of temperature are extremely tangible, above all in the High Atlas. On the contrary, the south of the country is featured by a hot and dry climate and by large temperature differences between night and day.

CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST IN REAL TIME

The voltage is 220 Volts. It may rarely happen that in some remote areas the voltage is still 110 Volts.

To call Italy from Morocco is very easy: dial 0039 then the Italian area code - including zero for fixed net numbers - and the number you wish to call (for example: to call a fixed net telephone number in Rome just dial 0039 06 354... ; to call a mobile phone number dial 0039 335 38...). To call Morocco from Italy dial the international code 00212 followed by the area code without zero and by the number you wish to call. The GSM network works perfectly but it is anyway advisable to get informed about coverage and costs before the departure. As for the Internet there are cafés in the tourist areas and in the main cities where it is possible to download or send e-mails.

There are no particular restrictions to take pictures or make amateur videos, excepted for some archeological or religious sites where an authorization is required. Please remember anyway that in this country people do not like being photographed. It is therefore advisable, as in any other country, to politely ask local people for their permission before taking pictures of them.

Finding a souvenir to take home or a gift for the friends is not a problem. Morocco is a mecca for shopping lovers. Souks are the best places where to do shopping but you must be skillful in negotiating and armed with great patience. Moroccans are very good sellers and while sipping some tea they will manage to sell you even what you do not need; the secret is to be determined in refusing an object you do not like. Carpets, leatherwear, pottery and mosaics are some of the most required objects among the tourists. Not to forget the mother-of-pearl mirrors and the Berber jewelry. Spices are very requested too thanks to their variety.

The Moroccan cooking tradition is very rich and diversified. Thanks to the combination of different gastronomies, the Moroccan cuisine is one of the most appreciated all over the world and also one of the most refined in Africa. The typical dishes are usually very tasty and featured by the use of spices. The most famous dish is probably "couscous", consisting of semolina served with meat, vegetables or fish - it is just a matter of taste. But trying only this dish would be a real pity - if you want to follow an advice, have something else as well. The Moroccan cuisine offers delicacies such as the "tajine" - named after the special pot in which it is cooked and prepared with meat, fish and legumes - and the "mechoui" - lamb meat roasted or cooked over a charcoal fire and then flavoured with different aromatic herbs, such as hot or sweet chili pepper, saffron, cumin and lemon juice. During the Ramadan period the fasting day can be traditionally broken at sunset with the "harira", a sort of vegetable soup consisting of beef or ram meat, chick-peas and lentils seasoned with pepper and saffron. But you should also taste the "briouats con kefta" - prepared with ground beef meat, chili pepper, eggs and cinnamon -, the meat "kebab", and the "harcha", the famous semolina flatbreads. Not to be missed are the excellent desserts: the "ghoriba", made with almonds, macaroons or sesame; the "beghrir", thin pancakes served with a syrup made from melted butter and honey; and the "shebbakia", cookies fried in oil and coated with honey. They may be particularly appreciated if tasted with mint tea.

Moroccan music is extremely varied, thus mirroring the different cultures that flourished one after the other in this country. Just to make an example, the rhythms of the Arab-Andalusian music derive from the Moroccan ruling over southern Spain. Also the Berber folk music dates back to ancient times: it was used (and it still is) in order to tell stories to be handed down from generation to generation. The mix of these two music genres has given rise to modern music. Special attention deserves the "Gnawa", or Saharan, music. It is a combination of Arab and Berber influences that can be traced to the Saharan regions. The musical instruments used are drums, the "guaita" - a wind instrument -, and the "krakebs" - much similar to castanets. The sounds and the dances of such a typical music genre may be appreciated during the traditional and famous "Gnawa World Music Festival", which takes place every year in Essaouira.

The nightlife is extremely lively, especially in tourist areas. In the big cities, such as Casablanca, Marrakech and Agadir, lots of discos offer the travelers the possibility to enjoy the nightlife till late dancing to the rhythm of international music hits alternated with songs of the Moroccan traditional music. Those who prefer more relaxing atmospheres may choose the characteristic Moorish-style cafés, where it is possible to taste excellent mint tea while smoking "narghile".

In Morocco there are so many scheduled events that listing them all would be impossible. As in all other Muslim countries the most important festivity period is Ramadan which corresponds to the ninth month of the Muslim lunar year. The Ramadan sacred month ends with the feast called "Aid al-Fitr" or small feast. The Great Feast, "Aid al Adha", is celebrated on the 10th day of the Pilgrimage month; it is the Festival of Sacrifice and it is the most important feast day in the Islamic calendar. Another important date during the Islamic lunar year is 'Aid-Milad-an-Nabi', the day which celebrates the birth of the prophet Mohammed. Other attractions and festivals held in the country are:
- the Almond tree Festival held in Tafraout in February;
- the Sacred Music Festival usually held in Fez during the month of May;
- the National Folklore Festival held in Marrakech during the month of June;
- the Camel Festival held in Guelmin in July;
- the Cultural Festival which takes place in Asilah in August;
- the Date Festival in Erfoud in October;
- the International Film Festival which takes place in Marrakech in December; it is an international event arising a high interest also abroad.

In Morocco, and in particular in Agadir, the thalassotherapy is very widespread and has become a real business. Most of the centers are located near the sea waters and are often included into elegant hotels or in suitably equipped medical institutes. The therapy quality, the therapist professional level and the presence of specialists during the treatments contribute to guarantee the desired results. Wellness and Health are a constant research, a philosophy of life to be obtained by reserving more time to yourself. Traveling to this country could be the occasion to regenerate the body and the mind and also to test the benefits of salinity and sea water, fundamental elements for the Thalassotherapy treatments.

1) The imperial cities: Fez, Marrakech, Rabat and Meknes;
2) Essaouira, it is a fortified city whose stunning beauty makes it be loved by artists and art directors all over the world;
3) Tangier, it is located in the northern area of Morocco and it is a Phoenician city founded by the Carthaginian settlers at the beginning of the 5th century. Thanks to its special atmosphere many writers and musicians chose this city as their home. To be seen are the Kasbah and the Dar el-Makhzen Palace rich in wonderful decorations;
4) The Sahara Desert, it is the widest desert on the earth. The silence, the amazing beauty of its dunes and a camel excursion will even win over the most skeptical visitor;
5) Ait Benhaddou, the most astonishing "Kasbah" in Morocco with a Berber architecture. Thanks to its particular construction process ("pisè", a mixture of earth and straw) and to its extraordinary beauty it has been chosen by many film directors all over the world as a location for several films;
6) The Riads, they are luxury private houses which are usually more intimate and romantic than standard hotels. They are obtained from old houses: after careful restoration works they have regained their ancient beauty and have been turned into exclusive and refined guesthouses. The Riads differ one from the other for their dimensions and furniture but their common elements are the accuracy in the details and the precious fabrics enchanting the traveler with an atmosphere of peace and serenity;
7) Taroudannt, it is a city with the elegance of the best Arabic tradition and with the charm of the embattled walls made of red mud. In spite of the hordes of tourists that visit the city every day, Taroudannt has not changed its Arabic identity and has remained a place arising supreme sensations;
8) Hassan II Mosque(Casablanca), it was inaugurated in 1993 and it is the second biggest mosque in the world, preceded over by the mosque in Mecca. It was built to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Hassan II of Morocco and its 210-meter high minaret is the highest in the world;
9) The Gorges of the Todra, it is one of the most impressing places in Morocco with its sheer-drop off rocky walls which are higher than 300 meters. They are located a few kilometers away from the Atlas Mountains deep into a luxuriant valley and they are a real wonder of the nature;
10) Volubilis, here it is possible to find the biggest and best preserved Roman ruins in the country.

1)Taghazout, it is a small village a few kilometers away from Agadir; it is known as the meeting point for skillful surfers loving the high Ocean waves;

2) The beach of Dar Bouazza, a few kilometers away from Casablanca, is the ideal place where to practice any kind of water sport. In 1993 it hosted the first Moroccan surf championship;

3)Agadir, its wonderful climate (the sun shines bright in the sky for more than 300 days a year) makes it the ideal place where to surf or sail, to do open-sea fishing or to practice water skiing;

4)Sidi Kaouki, it is a pleasant Berber village 15 kilometers away from Essaouira which has become the meeting point for surf, windsurf and kitesurf lovers from all over the world. Its 5-kilometer long beach hit by constant winds and very high waves is the ideal place to practice these sports;

5)Dakhla, it is located in the Western Sahara, almost at the border with Mauritania, and it is a paradise for water sport lovers. Its bay is hit by north-east blowing winds which create perfect waves to practice surf or kitesurf.

- Food and Water - It is advisable to drink water from sealed bottles or cans. Avoid the use of ice;
- Not to forget - A sweater can be useful above all during windy evenings. Basic elements are caps, sunglasses and high protection sun creams. A mosquito repellent is always advisable;
- Tips - Tips are not compulsory, but beyond being highly appreciated, tipping the waiter is quite a common habit;
- Safety - Morocco does not present particular problems and the country can be visited without risks. It is anyway advisable, as in any other country in the world, to be prudent in order to avoid having to face unpleasant situations.

Via Larga, 23
20122 Milan (Italy).
Phone: (+39) 02 5830 3633
Fax: (+39) 02 5830 3970
www.visitmorocco.com/index.php/eng

Via Spallanzani 8/10 - Rome (Italy)
Phone: (+39) 06 4402 506
Fax: (+39) 06 4402 695
www.inafrica.it/maldafrica/paesi/marocco/ambasciata.html

Consulate of Morocco in Italy
Via Ponte Severo, 25 - Milan (Italy)
Phone: (+39) 02 6707 3413
www.ambasciatadelmarocco.it

Embassy of Italy in RABAT
2, Idriss El Azhar - B.P. 111
Quartier Hassan - Rabat
Phone: (+212) 3721 9730
Fax: (+212) 3770 6882
www.ambrabat.esteri.it

Consulate General - Casablanca
21, Avenue Hassan Souktani
Phone: (+212) 2 277 558 - 220 068 - 208 445
Fax: (+212) 2 277 139
E-mail:italconsul.casa@casanet.net.ma 

Tangeri
37, Rue Assad Ibn-Al-Farrat
Phone: (+212) 39 931 064 - 936 997
Fax: (+212) 937 647
E-mail:conitang@pchalle.net.ma 

Marrakech
2 Rue Ibn Aicha Immeuble Bella - IV Etage - Marrakech Gueliz
Phone: (+212) 4 442 0276
Fax: (+212) 4 420 488
E-mail:heli.sud@iamm.net.ma