The World's Oldest University is in Morocco
One of the fascinating facts about Morocco is that it is home to the world's oldest continuously operating university. The University of Al Quaraouiyine, located in the city of Fez, was founded in 859 AD by a woman named Fatima Al-Fihri, establishing its rich intellectual culture.
Morocco is the world's largest exporter of Sardines
Although Portugal and Spain are more known for their canned sardine industry, it's actually Morocco that takes the crown as the global leader in sardine exports. The abundance of Atlantic sardines along the Moroccan coast makes it the largest exporter globally, accounting for over 62% of the sardine distribution worldwide.
Morocco has nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The cultural richness of Morocco can be explored among its nine UNESCO-rated World Heritage Sites, the majority of which are entire cities or historical districts within cities, such as the medinas in Marrakech, Fes, and Tetouan. These medinas are incredibly well-preserved and offer a unique insight into cultural and architectural trends stretching back hundreds of years.
Morocco was the first nation to recognize US independence
During the American Revolutionary War, Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States' independence in 1777, a decade before the 1787 constitution. This early international ally is still honoured today with the Moroccan–American Treaty of Friendship.
Atlas Studios in Morocco is the largest film studio in the world
The largest movie studio in terms of acreage is located in Morocco. Known as Atlas Studios, it lies just outside the city of Ouarzazate and has been used for many famous Hollywood films including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and the Game of Thrones series.
One of the world’s largest solar power plants is in Morocco
Completing the global list of the largest facilities, Morocco also houses the Ouarzazate Solar Power Station. This is one of the world's largest solar power plants, covering an area roughly the size of 3,500 football fields and generating enough electricity to power a city the size of Prague.
Morocco has an annual rose festival
Morocco is known for its beautiful and fragrant roses, particularly in the Valley of Roses near Kelaat M'gouna. Each May, a three-day Rose Festival is held to celebrate the harvest, with parades, music, dancing, and of course, countless roses.
The famous Blue City of Chefchaouen
The city of Chefchaouen, or the "Blue Pearl," is a popular tourist destination best recognized for its blue streets and buildings. This unique trait was introduced by Jewish refugees in the 15th century, who believed that the color blue represented the divine.
Morocco has a pink village
As well being home to a blue city, Morocco also boasts the marvellous dusty pink village of Tafraoute. Nestled among the Anti-Atlas Mountains, this remote Berber town is known for its distinctive pink-hued buildings that contrast dramatically with the surrounding lunar-like landscape.
Argan oil is exclusive to Morocco
Argan trees are endemic to Morocco, and it's the only place in the world where they grow. These trees produce a fruit from which is extracted the rare argan oil, a popular ingredient in high-end cosmetic products and gourmet cuisine for its numerous beneficial properties.
Morocco is one of the world’s largest producers of Cannabis
Although consumption is illegal, Morocco is reputedly the world's largest exporter of cannabis resin, or hashish. The plant is grown predominantly in the northern Rif Mountains and forms a substantial element of the local economy.
Individual national mechanics
Morocco is the only African country that is not a member of the African Union. The country withdrew in 1984 due to a dispute over Western Sahara, but was readmitted in 2017, re-establishing its African political ties.
A Moroccan meal with international fame
Moroccan cuisine is famous worldwide, but one dish stands above the rest: couscous. Traditionally eaten every Friday with family, this steamed semolina is served with a rich broth and meat or vegetable stew. In 2020, the cultural importance of couscous was recognized by UNESCO listing it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Moroccan flag's symbolism
The Moroccan flag, which features a red field with a green star in the centre, symbolizes hardiness, bravery, strength, and valour with its crimson red, while the Seal of Solomon (green star) represents wisdom, peace, and love.
Morocco’s national animal
The Barbary Lion, once native to Morocco, is a national symbol despite being officially extinct in the wild since the 1960s. Their larger size and distinctive thick, dark mane make them a significant feature in Moroccan cultural representation.
The King of Morocco has a grand title
The King of Morocco holds a grand title – "His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, Commander of the Faithful" – which denotes his dual political and religious role.
Goat tree climbing is a common sight
In Morocco, it's not unlikely to see goats climbing trees, especially in the southwestern region. They climb Argan trees in search of the olive-like fruits, providing an entertaining spectacle for onlookers.
The impressive Agdal Basin of Marrakech
Agdal Gardens in Marrakech is home to the ancient Agdal Basin – the largest manmade body of water in the Islamic world. It measures 150 x 500 meters and was once used to irrigate the surrounding gardens and orchards.
Extensive coastline
A lesser-known fact about Morocco is its vast coastline, which stretches over 1835 km long, bordering both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, offering a mix of beach types, from rocky outcrops to sandy shores.
The Stork Festival in Marrakech
Lastly, summertime sees the arrival of the Stork Festival in Marrakech. This unique annual event is centered around the city's large stork population. These birds are widely regarded in Moroccan culture as holy birds, and the festival allows locals and tourists alike to celebrate these creatures.