Write@Home
Winter 2015

Homeland

View of the Ait ben Haddou near Ouarzazate on the edge of the sahara desert in Morocco

Morocco, the homeland, the roots, the influence, the love, and everything in between.

Many things affect me in Morocco, but what I believe is most special, is the diversity that can be felt in every aspect.

Geographically, Morocco is bordered by Spain (Europe) in the north and Mauritania in the south. This geographical situation allows Morocco to be a link between Europe and Africa, especially since the distance is only 14 km.

A large part of Morocco (third) is mountainous with four mountain ranges; the Rif Mountains in the north as an extension of the Baetic System (mountains in Spain), the middle Atlas which is considered the water tower of the country, the great Atlas Mountains which shelter Toubkal the highest peak of north Africa, and finally the little Atlas who separate the north of the country from the south.

However, tourists who only expect to find desert and mountains are quickly surprised to experience multiple nature scenes within a few hours. The Mediterranean Sea offers beautiful scenery with calm hidden gem beaches. The Atlantic Ocean on the west coast is the place to be for surfing fans to catch the perfect waves. Also, if someone comes in the winter, they won’t be disappointed, they can see snow and enjoy skiing activities as well. If all the mentioned above does not win them over, some regions offer a great mix: Dakhla with the desert meeting the ocean or Taghazout with the mountains carving paths to unique beaches.

All of this geographical diversity is certainly translated into cultural diversity. Languages spoken in Morocco today are Amazigh and Arabic with different dialects as well as French and Spanish; in addition to Hebrew for the Jewish minority.

Morocco is also a land that embraces many religions. The majority of Moroccans are known to be Muslims nonetheless, the Moroccan Jewish community also has its print in the country’s history. Parallelly, Christians, Bahai and agnostic Moroccans continue to live in the shadows.

Currently Morocco is experiencing one its most devastating earthquakes; However, Morocco still has a lot to offer and the country will come back on its feet.