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As a member of the Collette team, I get to travel to all kinds of amazing places that shift my perspective every time, but my experiences in Morocco have changed me in ways I didn’t expect.
The old me would not have placed Morocco on my bucket list, but after spending nine days in this exotic melting pot, rich in ancient history, culture, and mind-blowing architecture, I would encourage you to reconsider your list if Morocco isn’t on it.
A History Captured in Architecture
Morocco’s history is quite extensive, and much of it is reflected in its architecture. Its first independent state, called the Berber Kingdom, ruled by the Berbers (also known as the Amazigh, an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa), saw the use of earth or mud bricks called pisé.
These structures served defensive functions at trading posts and ports, or they were used as guard walls against pirates or rivals. This concept of self-defense can be seen throughout much of Morocco’s ancient cities as wave after wave of foreign invaders began to infiltrate their land.
Exploring Famous Moroccan Landmarks: The Hassan II Mosque
Over the years, Morocco has seen a heavy influence of Islamic, Spanish, and French architecture blended with traditional Moroccan influences and urban design. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, for example, is a colossal feat of modern Islamic architecture that blends the spectrum of the country’s own and outside influencers.
Made predominantly of locally-sourced materials such as granite, plaster, marble, and wood, there were some exceptions to its layout and to the décor, such as Italian white granite and 56 Italian glass chandeliers.
The mosque’s overall structure has pulled in features from a global architectural library – influences like Roman forts, the Dome of the Rock in Israel, the Great Mosque of Kairouan in Tunisia, the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain, and many other mosques in Northern Africa and the Middle East.
Discover Famous Buildings in Morocco: Tip for Visitors
When you’re walking around Morocco and able to witness firsthand many of the country’s old and new structures, don’t forget to look up to see the intricate details of muqarnas (ornate hand-carved domed ceilings). If you look down, you’ll see your feet dancing on unique tilework known as zellige (mosaic tilework made from individually chiseled geometric tiles).
For more on Morocco and other tips, look out for my stories about Morocco's food and agriculture, haggling at the souks, and incredible landscapes!
Experience Collette’s Morocco Tours
If travel to Morocco is on your list, Collette offers two tours that allow you to visit some of Morocco’s historical landmarks and explore some of its architectural wonders firsthand—including the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. Each tour, with its own blend of rich history, culture, and landmarks, brings an immersive experience into the heart of Morocco.
Colors of Morocco
From the ancient market streets of Fes to a luxury camp in the Sahara Desert, this tour is an epic journey through Morocco’s rich history and diverse landscapes. See the earthen clay architecture of the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou (a UNESCO World Heritage site), visit the fortified village of El Khorbat, and take in the high arches of Al-Qarawiyyin University. Some other highlights include a camel ride, a cooking class at a women’s cooperative, and a winery tour and tasting.
Spain & Morocco
Discover the vivid tapestry of cultures in both Morocco and Spain. This tour takes you from Spain’s historic cities, like Madrid and Seville, to the streets of Chefchaouen and the ancient Medina of Fes. Along with exploring Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque, take in the architecture of La Mezquita in Córdoba and the Alhambra in Granada, all while enjoying unique cuisine and uncovering stories, sights, customs, and more in these two destinations.
Ready to start planning? Learn more about Morocco and our tours that can take you there.
