Architecture in Morocco
The country of Morocco is regarded by many as the country that is steeped in mysticism and beautiful natural wonders as well as old architectural styles that have stood the test of time. The beautiful architecture of Morocco is ancient and there are many sites that can be explored by tourists. Though a number of modern architectural styled apartments, office complexes and other buildings have also come up, the older buildings haven’t lost their allure as of yet. Some of the architectural nuances can also be seen in the modern buildings that are been constructed even today.
Unique blend of architectural styles
Morocco has seen a unique blend of architectural styles that comprise of Black African and Islamic styles. Though in most ancient buildings, you will find that the Islamic principles of architecture find predominance. The building itself is decorated with other elements such as huge and lavish gardens, beautiful decorations and use of deep and earthy tones of colors as well as bright colors that are very distinctive to the country. Since Morocco has seen many invasions and was also a former colony of France, strong fortifications of palaces and desert settlements can also be seen. The style of Moroccan architecture is extremely grand and is very appealing.
Key characteristics
Some of the characteristics that are common to all the old buildings in Morocco are grand arches and domes. There are beautiful and quaint courtyards with beautifully laid gardens that complete the look of the place holistically. Religious places such as mosques and other monuments are also decorated with beautiful Islamic and Persian-style calligraphy that runs across the domes and the archways also. The use of geometric patterns is used substantially and is also found commonly in Moroccan buildings.
Must Visit
Some of the buildings that should be visited for the sake of architecture include the Royal Palace, The Mohammed V Mausoleum, Kasbah Des Oudaias, Museum of Moroccan Arts and many more. When in the city of Marrakech, tourists should also visit the ‘Palace of Dead, the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia Palace’. All cites have their unique Moroccan architecture and have managed to retain the old world charm in spite of modern constructions. With tourism taking a precedent, the real estate market and the tourism sector have become the favorites of the investors.
Connectivity
It has also been heavily influenced by the Spanish designs as well since the tip of Morocco is only eight miles away from the Spanish coastline. The original inhabitants of Morocco have been the Berbers that have farmed the land from approximately 2000 BC. There have been many other invaders who have come and left their architectural stamp on the buildings. Invaders in the past have been the Arabs, Spanish, the Portuguese and the French.
Masterpiece
One of the oldest architectural styles has been the fortified citadels that were built around the Atlas Mountains. These are towering forts and have simple lines. Most of them are now in ruins; however they have blended very well into the Moroccan background.
Filed Under: About Morocco
