Travel Morocco has a long and storied history, with a rich and diverse culture that has been shaped by a variety of influences over the centuries. From ancient empires to modern-day kingdoms, Morocco has played a significant role in the history of the region and the world. Here’s a more detailed look at the history of Morocco.
1. Prehistoric Times
The history of Morocco can be traced back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region was home to a number of ancient empires, including the Phoenicians, Romans, and Vandals. The Phoenicians, who arrived in Morocco around the 12th century BC, established a number of trading colonies along the Moroccan coast and left a lasting impact on the country’s culture and language. The Romans also had a significant presence in Morocco, with the city of Volubilis serving as an important Roman administrative center.
2. The Arab Conquest
In the 7th century, Morocco was conquered by Arab forces and became part of the Arab world. The region was ruled by a series of Arab dynasties, including the Almoravids and Almohads, who left a lasting impact on Moroccan culture and architecture. The Almoravids, who ruled from the 11th to the 12th centuries, were a Berber dynasty that originated in present-day Mauritania. They expanded their empire to include much of Morocco and Spain and made significant contributions to Moroccan culture, including the construction of the city of Marrakech. The Almohads, who ruled from the 12th to the 13th centuries, were also a Berber dynasty that rose to power in Morocco and Spain. They are known for their architectural achievements, including the construction of the Giralda minaret in Seville and the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech.
3. The European Influence
From the 16th to the 19th centuries, Morocco was a major center of trade and a gateway between Europe and Africa. The country was influenced by European powers such as Portugal, Spain, and France, and played a significant role in the trans-Saharan trade. In 1912, Morocco became a protectorate of France, which ruled the country until independence in 1956.
4. The Modern Kingdom
In the 20th century, Morocco became a modern kingdom under the leadership of King Hassan II. The country has since undergone significant political and economic changes and has become a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. Today, Morocco is a diverse and vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage and a bright future.
