Top Ten Fun Facts About Morocco
A Morocco holiday might conjure up images of ornate palaces, scented spice markets and rolling desert dunes – but there’s much more to uncover. Home to Africa’s highest ski resort and the world’s oldest university, the country is packed with surprising secrets. Read on for our favourite fun facts about Morocco...
1. Morocco was the first African country to make the Football World Cup semi-finals
In 2022, Morocco made history by reaching the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. In a nail-biting quarter-final against Portugal, Morocco took the win, thanks to a first-half header from Youssef En-Nesyri. Football plays a crucial role in the country’s identity, with packed stadiums and passionate fans fuelling a powerful sense of national pride.
Image by Carlos Leret/Unsplash
2. Marrakech is known as the ‘Red City’
True to its nickname, this lively city is renowned for its red-hued buildings, which are constructed from red sandstone and clay. The city’s signature salmon pink colour is especially striking in the UNESCO-listed medina – the ancient heart of Marrakech. Set against the mighty Atlas Mountains, Marrakech retains its historic charm, with many of its original structures still standing from the 12th century Almohad era.
3. The Amazigh (or Berber) people make up around 40% of Morocco’s population
With an estimated 30 to 40 million people scattered across North Africa, the Amazigh are Morocco’s largest indigenous group. Traditionally, they lead nomadic lifestyles in the mountains and deserts – although today, many call Morocco’s cities home. To connect with their rich culture, head north to visit the remote Amazigh villages nestled in the High Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert (with the help of an expert local guide, of course).
Image by Salva Lopez
4. Morocco is home to Africa’s highest ski resort
Tucked away in the High Atlas Mountains, Oukaimeden ski resort rises to dizzying heights, with slopes ranging from 8,500ft to 10,500ft. In the 1940s, the military took control of the area and even oversaw the installation of the first ski lifts. Fast-forward a few decades later and Oukaimeden’s powdery peaks gained international recognition. Today, the resort boasts around 20 snowy ski slopes. With a single access road, the journey to Oukaimeden is an adventure in itself, but the peaks pay off.
5. The liver is considered the symbol of love in Morocco
One of the most surprising Morocco fun facts is that the liver, not the heart, represents love. While many cultures use the heart to symbolise affection, Moroccans express love using a different term of endearment. Similar to how people in other parts of the world might say ‘my love’ or ‘my heart’ to show affection, Moroccans say ‘my liver’. In Tamazight (Amazigh languages), this is Thssa Ino, and in Darija (Moroccan Arabic), it’s Lkbida diali.
Image by Salva Lopez
6. Morocco has four imperial cities
Rabat, Fez, Meknes and Marrakech have all held the title of Morocco’s capital city at different points in history. Founded in the 12th century by the Almohad Dynasty, Rabat became the official capital in 1956, following Morocco’s independence from France. From the ancient medinas and majestic palaces of Fez and Meknes to the bustling souks and lively streets of Marrakech, each imperial city offers its own distinct experience.
7. It’s considered impolite to handle food with your left hand in Morocco
Eating with your hands is part of Moroccan culture, and according to tradition, the right hand should be your go-to. This doesn’t just apply to food – it’s customary to use your right hand when giving or receiving gifts, passing plates or even shaking hands. The left hand is generally considered unclean or impure, so stick to the right hand to show respect for the local customs.
Image by Jackie Cole
8. Morocco is home to the world’s oldest university
Sitting pretty in Fez, Morocco’s ancient capital, the University of Al Quaraouiyine has been around since 859 AD. Originally founded as a mosque and madrasa (Islamic school), it’s now recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continually operating university. In 1963, it joined Morocco’s modern state university system, and today, it offers degrees in everything from linguistics and law to medicine and astronomy. The building itself feels like stepping back in time, with mosaics and floral designs from the 12th century Almohad Dynasty still adorning the walls.
9. The most popular drink in Morocco is mint tea
It’s a refreshing blend of green tea leaves, fragrant mint leaves and just the right amount of sugar. More than just a drink, tea-making is considered an art form in Morocco. Served as a warm gesture of hospitality, it’s a tradition often shared with family and friends.
Image by James Rajotte / Gallery Stock
10. Fez is one of the world’s oldest Medieval cities
The oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, Fez was founded in the ninth century. It flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries under the Marinids. Today, you can still get lost in the city’s maze-like medina with the help of a local guide, or stroll through its historic palaces, mosques and fountains for a glimpse into the past. While it’s no longer Morocco’s capital, Fez is still considered the country’s cultural and spiritual epicentre.
