Ever dream of traveling to African countries one day? Morocco, perhaps, should be on your bucket list as it is known as a haven for travellers because of ancient morocco’s natural wonders, historical beauties, and very rich culture.
Morocco has a lot to offer, whether it’s for locals, visitors, and tourists. But before Morocco became what it is today, it had a long history that is worth telling.
Everything to Know About Morocco’s Ancient History
Have you ever gone to Morocco? It’s a varied and vast territory united into the modern nation-state. It has a long history, even if it struggles for ascendancy between Arabs, Berber tribes, powerful dynasties, empires, and even the European powers. Interesting, right?
Known as an ancient country in Africa, Morocco has influenced people for centuries. Morocco is diverse, and its culture may seem derived from different ancient cultures. It was indeed the melting pot of cultures and dynasties.
We all know that each country has its history and important milestones that will give the country true value. The history of a country is among the events worth remembering, which perfectly describes Morocco.
With different dynasties succeeding over the years, you would agree that Morocco has gained international popularity as a multicultural country. It has several kinds of heritage recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage.
It became one of the go-to countries for discovery lovers. Or, if you are fascinated with history, nature, and art, you can experience it with Moroccan hospitality. The experience is priceless and will leave you pleasantly satisfied with your stay.
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Early History of Morocco
Did you know that the Phoenicians were the first ones to explore Morocco? Phoenicians set up a trading post at Lixus on the Moroccan coast in 10000 BC. In the next centuries, the Phoenicians and Carthaginians were the ones who founded the outposts at Essaouira and Tangier. They also built the town on the site of present-day Rabat.
You may not be familiar with this, but it’s interesting to know how ancient Morocco started.
The Greek traders called the violent inhabitants of the interior barbaroi. It means ‘not of our people’, and it was the name that has not continued through ages as ‘Berber’.
And only little was known about the early Berbers until the land became part of the Roman Empire. The Romans built settlement centres, which include the Volubilis, that remain today and perhaps very impressive in Morocco at that time.
Dynastic History of Morocco
Morocco also had many invaders in the Classical era besides Phoenicians, Romans, and Carthaginians. But did you know that with the arrival of Islam, Morocco developed into an independent nation? Because of them, invaders of Morocco remain at bay.
Now, let’s learn more about the dynastic history of Morocco.
Idrisside Dynasty
It was in the year 788 that marked the birth of the Muslim dynasty of Middle Eastern origin. The Moroccan State has created thanks to them, and the Idrisside dynasty was the first to conquer Morocco. It took them more than a century to rule, and the founder was Idriss.
As the founder of the first-ever royal dynasty in Morocco, the Idrissides were also the ones to build new cities, which included Fez, and later became the capital. There were also several monuments and architectural works of this dynasty. Don’t miss seeing these works because they are outstanding masterpieces.
Almoravid Dynasty
After the Idrissides dynasty, the Almoravid took over and began to reign over the country. They actually obtained shares of Maghreb soil, the Almoravids. They managed to reign the entire Al-Andalus and Maghreb, of which they named Marrakech as the capital.
They also built religious artefacts and mosques like the Koutoubia mosque, whose construction started during the reign of the Almoravid. Who would’ve thought that this dynasty was the one that built an irrigation center to provide water for the entire region? Thanks to them, ancient Morocco started to develop into a city.
Almohad Dynasty
Right after the reign of the Almoravid, the Almohads took over, and they declared war against the Almoravids under the religious pretext. The truth is their Arabic name implies the unique “Attawhid” and is believed to be the object of the proclamation. This dynasty reigned just half the century and ended in 1212, as the Christians defeated them.
Merinid Dynasty
Amazigh Chief Abou Yahia founded this dynasty. Having Fez as the capital, the Marinid dynasty ousted the Almohads and drove them out of Maghreb. Yet, they didn’t last that long, as the Portuguese defeated the Merinids.
But despite their defeat, it should be noted that the Marinid dynasty had several achievements that are still being used today. The ones you see at home or in a building, such as stucco and wood, roofing with glazed tiles, and glazed ceramics, were some of the accomplishments of the Marinid dynasty.
Saadian Dynasty
Next to Merinids was the Saadian dynasty. They declared war against the Portuguese, as well as recovered several cities, which includes Agadir city. Interestingly, Morocco experienced years of glory, as seen through knowledge, culture, and wealth during the reign of Saadians.
Alaouite Dynasty
Finally, the Saadians were dethroned by the Alaouite dynasty. The Alaouite dynasty drove out the Saadians for power. And right after taking Fez as the capital, Fez changed and improved the entire city.
Protective walls were created like the famous Bab El-Mansour gate. And if you happen to visit Morocco, you can see these walls. Today, the Alaouite continues its reign, with Muhammad VI as the 23rd ruler to ensure the union of the Kingdom and transmit religious values.
Shortly after taking the throne, King Muhammad VI started a new policy to combat corruption and poverty. There were jobs created that aimed to improve the human rights of the Moroccans.
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Wrapping Up
Morocco is indeed a developing and very popular tourist destination. But this old imperial city would never be what it is today without its interesting history. If you visit Morocco, you’d notice it as a modern city at first glance. But know that it still has interesting historical attractions that will remind you of ancient Morocco.
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