Uncategorized Archives - Page 2 of 6 - Travel-Exploration Blog Travel-Exploration Blog

Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category

Denise Masson, “The Lady of Marrakech”, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Wednesday, March 27th, 2013

Denise Masson was not only a leading Islamic scholar of Marrakech, she was “La Dame de Marrakech” par excellence .. a woman who celebrated the medina where she lived and continues to be part of the memory of this city and Morocco.

Denise Masson wrote her famous interpretation of the Koran which must be hailed as one of the best interpretations of the Koran in French, published in 1967 by Gallimard.

The Riad Denise Masson, where she studied Islam, and was honoured by her neighbourhood, was bequeathed to the French Institute of Marrakech to host people or events aimed at dialogue between the three religions of the Book.

To pay tribute to her, and on the occasion of 110 anniversary of her birth (August 5, 1901) and the anniversary of her death at 93 on 10 November 1994, a ceremony was organised on 10 November 2011, at the European cemetery in Marrakech, Guéliz.

On this occasion prayers were said from the three religions of the Book, in the presence of the Consul General of France in Marrakech, Chantal Chauvin, Bahija Simou (speecj in Arabic), Francois-Xavier Tillette (Project Manager for the Sub-Directorate North Africa, Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs), Dominique Lemaistre (Director of Sponsorship at the Fondation de France) and Guerric Masson (great-nephew and biographer Denise Masson).

Denise Masson was the most erudite and well known Islamic scholar of her time, known for translating the Koran into French. Writer, musician, protagonist of the dialogue of cultures of the Euro-Maghreb and the three monotheistic religions , She chose to leave the riad to France and to be buried in Morocco, a country she always loved and where she rests peace.

The famous Denise Masson riad, located at Bab Doukkala in the old medina of Marrakech, is open to the public for greater cultural and artistic development of this specific place.

For More Information on Denise Masson and a Marrakech Tour

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Tags: Denise Masson was not only a leading Islamic scholar of Marrakech, she was "La Dame de Marrakech" par excellence .. a woman who celebrated the medina where she lived and continues to be part of the memory of this city and Morocco.
Posted in she was "La Dame de Marrakech" par excellence .. a woman who celebrated the medina where she lived and continues to be part of the memory of this city and Morocco., Uncategorized | Comments Off on Denise Masson, “The Lady of Marrakech”, Your Morocco Tour Guide

10 Great Things to Do in Marrakech, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Tuesday, March 26th, 2013

Marrakech Atlas Mountain Views

Morocco’s “Red Hamra” city of Marrakech is an icon for travelers to Morocco. A visit to this North African country’s hotspot of Marrakech is a must. Morocco is exotic and the penchant of every travelers dream is to visit Marrakech. Marrakech offers landscapes to indulge in along with a bustling medinas and Berber villages just minutes outside. Here are Ten Great things to do in Marrakech.

1. Touch the Heart of the Atlas

The view of the Atlas Mountains and its snow capped peaks is one of Marrakech’s glories and can be viewed from many part’s of the city, looking far closer than 4 kms away. One of the best locations is the terrace of the Hotel Renaissance where you can sip a drink during the day or at sundown as the white peaks go pink .Churchill and Roosevelt savoured the moment,Churchill telling his friend at the end of the Casablanca conference :”You cannot come all this way to North Africa without seeing Marrakech. Let us spend two days there. I must be with you when you see the sun set on the Atlas Mountains.”

Marrakech Caleche Ride

2. Romantic Trip by Horse Drawn Caleche

Take a romantic trip round Marrakech’s ancient ramparts in a horse drawn caleche . It is also an excellent way to get to know the city at a sedate pace instead of roaring around in a taxi. Make sure you agree the price before hand !

3. Indulge & Shop the Marrakech Souks

The fabled souks of Marrakech are a vibrant riot of colour as they display their riches crafted by its artisans , carpets, kelims jewelry, jellabas and caftans, dressess ,shirts and tunics,wooden bowls, ornate boxes and chess sets an, leather bags and jackets and lamps, as the crowds pass through and salesman vie to attract attention and haggle over prices. Serious shoppers should be armed with a notebook, a calculator and time for tea and haggling when visiting the Grande Souk. when visiting the Souk several hours is the minimum for any shopping expedition. You can choose your vendor on your own or with a guide. Marrakech’s medina and its grande souk stocks the city’s treasure of handicrafts. If you’re willing to haggle then a deal can be had. If you are not a haggler then simply enjoy the spectacle and visit the Ensemble d’Artisansale, a craftsmen’s cooperative on the Avenue Mohammed V offers fixed price goods in a charming and unpressurised atmosphere. It’s also a good place to check out prices before plunging into the souk nd.you can also watch the craftsmen at work.Wander the timeless streets of the medina and be seduced by its ancient medieval mystique.

4. Be a Sultan for a Day – Explore the Great Medersa Ben Youssef

The Medersa Ben Youssef was an Islamic college in Marrakech named after named after the Almoravid Sultan Ali ibn Youssef who reigned from 1106–1142. Wonder at the glory of the golden age of islamic architecture in the central courtyard and walk through the maze of 130 student cells in this Medieval centre of learning.

5. Stepback in time at La Maison de la Photographie

La Maison de la Photographie is a photographic treasure trove of Morocco and Moroccans from the 1870’s to just before independence in 1956. to the gallery in a converted three floor foundak which houses a collection of photograhps of Morocco from the 1860’s and the very earliest days of photography to 1956 on the eve of Morocco’s independence. Over 5,000 photographs and glass prints of Morocco were brought from France to Marrakech by Patrick Man’ach and he and his assistants give a guided tour of this unique record of Morocco as it was.There is a video room with footage of Berber tribes dancing in the 1950’s At the end of the tour you can mount the terrace for a fine view of the Medina.

6. Overnight in an Ancient Riad in Marrakech – Palace Sytle

Stay in a Riad in Marrakech’s medina and enjoy life in the ancient medina .Riad’s are individually richly decorated by local craftsmen and give you the opportunity to stay in an intimate atmosphere as an alternative to a hotel outside the Medina.. Many Riads offer cookery classes so that you can learn how to create your own Moroccan cuisine and riad owners can advise you where to go for local bargains in the souk.

7. Stroll Marrakech’s Exotic Gardens & Lush Parks

The Abdelsalem Park with its high palm trees, greenery and shrouded walks is one of these off the busy Avenue Mohammed V, it is a haven of much needed tranquility after a few hours of frenetic shopping in the souk . Other famous parks are the Aguedal and the Menara with its large water tank and famous Pavilion. The El Harti Park off the Place 16 November is a delightful park with a play area for children with two large stone dinasours. The famous exotic and colourful Majorelle gardens once owned by Yves St Laurent are on the Boulevard Zerktouni.

8. Paradise at the Bahia Palace – Walk in the footsteps of the Vizir Si Moussa

The Bahia Palace was the 19 th century residence of the vizir Si moussa and his son who succeeded him, Ba Ahmed and has a remarkable maze of rooms and gardens there is even an ornate parade ground.The American novelist Edith Wharton stayed there in1917 when she was a guest of Marshal Lyautey after the First World War and it was te French army headquarters in Marrakech and she wrote a vivid description in her book “In Morocco”. Go back in time in a Vizir’s palace.

Moroccan Hammam

9. Go local – Visit an Authentic Moroccan Hammam for a traditional Scrub

Visit a Moroccan hammam to soak in the heat, be scrubbed and massaged with Argan, Orange and Rose oils to take away your aches and pains. Experience traditional beauty treatments of a gromage and sip tea by a delightful fountain. Marrakech has some of the most charming and authentic traditional Hammam’s in Morocco.

10. Splurge and Dine out at Marrakech’s Finest that is run by women

Splurge on one superb Moroccan meal at Al Fassia restaurant on Boulevard Zerktouni in the Gueliz staffed by women it is still the place to sample the very best in Moroccan cuisine with a selection of salades and traditional tangines and couscous washed down with fine Moroccan wine.

For More Information on Great things to do in Marrakech or a Marrakech Tour

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: 10 Great things to do in Marrakech, Al Fassia, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Medersa, Caleche Ride, La Maison de la Photographie, Marrakech Express, Marrakech Tour, Tours to Morocco, Travel Exploration Morocco
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on 10 Great Things to Do in Marrakech, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Moroccan Wine & Vineyards, Wine & Food Tasting Morocco Tour

Friday, March 22nd, 2013

Wine production in Morocco is believed to have been introduced by Phoenician settlers, and was definitely established in the era of Ancient Rome. Large-scale wine production with extensive vineyards was introduced into Morocco by the French during the protectorate as it was in Algeria and Tunisia. Today’s regions in Morocco that have become famous for wine are Meknes, Casablanca and Essaouira.

At Morocco’s independence in 1956, there were 55,000 hectares (140,000 acres) of vineyards. Although much of the French wine expertise left when Morocco became independent, the wine trade continued to be significant into the 1960s Moroccan winwas used for blending with French wines until the European Community introduced import quotas in 1967 which led to significant reductions in previous wine exports. From 1973-1984, the vast majority of the vineyards were also taken over by the Moroccan state and wine production declined. In the 1990’s KingHassan II sought to revive investment from French wine growers principally from Bordeaux.

In the 1990s, during the rule of Hassan II, the Moroccan wine production started to improve due to foreign (primarily French) investment and know-how. This was achieved by offering foreign wine companies the possibility for long-term lease of vineyards from the state agricultural company SODEA. Several large Bordeaux-based wine companies, including Groupe Castel, William Pitters and Taillan, entered into such partnerships, which have been quite successful in reviving the Moroccan wine industry.

The traditional red grapes planted in Morocco are Carignan (which once dominated), Cinsaut (almost 40 per cent in 2005), Alicante, and Grenache. Plantations of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah have increased rapidly, and together make up around 15 per cent. Traditional white grape varieties include Clairette and Muscat. There has also been smaller experimentations with Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc.

Morocco sets itself apart from other countries in North Africa because of its potential for producing high quality wines due to its location. Benefiting from the cooling breeze from the Atlantic Ocean and nested at the bottom of the Atlas Mountains, Moroccan vineyards have been cultivated for more than 4,000 years.

When Morocco became a protectorate of France in 1912, the French found its fertile soil, especially in the Meknes region of the Middle Atlas Mountains, an ideal spot in which to build a formidable wine industry. Morocco is now producing high quality wines for export. The majority of wine exports go to France and other European destionations but the wine importing company Exotic Imports is beginning to make inroads into the American market, particularly Colorado.

Thalvin’s vineyards are located in Zenata, the coastal region of Morocco. Enhanced by the warm rays of the Moroccan sun, the constitution of its soil, the use of sustainable farming methods and the handpicking of the grapes. The resulting traditional winemaking approach has led to the creation of the best of Moroccan wines, and provide a diverse range of wines, each created with a stylistic approach, unique blends and settled notes. Retaining indigenous varietals such as Faranah, and introducing others such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

One of the best regions for making wine in Morocco is the Ouled Thaleb Estate, situated 20 miles northeast of Casablanca, which clearly demonstrates a similarity with the soil of Bordeaux and particularly, the Medoc region. The soil consists of sandy shale and gravel sand, and like the Medoc region, the estate is in close proximity to the sea. Located on the Ben-Slimane plateau, it faces the Atlantic Ocean and is swept by west winds which leave their maritime influence on the region.

Thalvin, in partnership with landowners in Rommani, a region of rolling hills situated at the base of the Atlas Mountains (at an altitude of 2000 feet), have planted vines where the black soil, its chalky clay subsoil and the emerging rock supply the very particular qualities desired for the making of quality wines. Grapes are hand picked and there is no use of herbicide or fungicide, so technically these grapes are grown organically. The wine industry in Morocco employs about 10,000 people and supplies about 40 million bottles of Moroccan wine per year.

Morocco is one of the largest wine producers in the islamic world.The industry brings the state millions in sales and taxes Up till now the majority of wine sales have been in Morocco which is of course a muslim country and it’s no secret that many Moroccans enjoy wine as well as Morocco’s growing number of tourists. As an islamic party now leads the government and a stricter interpretation of islam is gaining ground the future for Moroccan wines may well be more directd towards export and the tourism industry inthe future.

The Celliers de Meknes owned by Mr Brahim Zniber now cultivates 2,100 hectares (5,189 acres) of vineyards, bottling anything from entry-level table wine to homemade champagne and even a high-end claret, Chateau Roslane, aged in a vaulted cellar packed with oak barrels imported from France. The winery now dwarfs virtually any other producer in Europe.Cradle of the Designation of Geographic Origin (AOG) the areas of Guerrouane, Beni M’tir and of the Designation of Controlled Origin (AOC) area of “Les Coteaux De l’Atlas”, this region concentrates today more than 60% of the Moroccan wine production. Les Celliers De Meknes is in the heart of these vineyards.Les Celliers de Meknes has created the first Moroccan Chateau officially inaugurated in June 2004.

Wine tasting visits can be arranged to the vineyards of Chateau Roslane with Les Celliers Meknes.Chateau Roslan is in the only AOC region (AOC coteauxd’Atlas) in Morocco and creates wines of varying quality and price. The Chateau is immaculate, and has beautifully manicured gardens with traditional fountains. Chateau Roslan produces the premier “Cru” White and Red and other premium wines.

Volubilia is a small vineyard of 63 hectares, and wine tasting visits can also be arranged. It produces wines which are highly scored and probably the best in the area.

For More Information Wine Tour in Morocco and the Meknes Winery

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: Essaouira Winery, French Wine, Meknes Wine Tour, Meknes Winery, Moroccan Vineyards, Moroccan Wine, Morocco Travel, Morocco Wine Tours, Tours to Morocco, Travel Exploration, Wine & Food Tasting Tour, Wine Plantations
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Moroccan Wine & Vineyards, Wine & Food Tasting Morocco Tour

Kelaa M’gouna, A Town of Roses & Home to Morocco’s Rose Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Thursday, March 21st, 2013

At the small town of El Kelaa M’Gouna (also referred to as the Valley of Roses) in the aSouth of Morocco, a 140km East of Ouarzazate, in the heart of Dades Valley one can see the manual harvest of Damas roses and the Rose Festival in May each year.

There is a thriving local industry distilling rose water, introduced by the French in the 1930’s and cosmetic products such as soaps, gels, creams, sprays and oils and dried rosebuds these can be bought on site.The buds are dried for use in cosmetics, home decoration and cooking, while the petals are distilled into rose water and, ultimately, rose oil, a key ingredient in many perfumes. Distillation is made in two factories in the Valley of Roses area and in April and May it is possible to visit Kelaâ’s factory, set up in a former kasbah.In Kelaâ Des Mgouna , Morocco there is also a dagger factory, in the mellah, where the Jewish craft is perpetuated, with handles and sheaths made in cedar wood or in camel bones, ornate with silver, and fixed on blades coming from another small village a few kilometres away.

The distillation plants work with 3,000-4,000 tonnes of petals a year. With ten tons of petals required to produce a few liters of precious oil, the harvest is extensive culminating in the annual Rose Festival each year in May when El Kelaa MGouna becomes a colourful centre of berber dancing and music with stalls of local crafts and products for sale. A festival queen is chosen from a parade of brightly coloured floats which is a highlight of the event.

Driving across the desert from Ouarzazate you come across El Kelaa MGouna and shortly afterwards you arrive at the Valley of the Roses.The greenryof the M’Goun wadi, is a sharp contrast to the desert scenery on the way from Ouarzazate.The river is hidden by a dense patchwork of palms, olive and fig trees, pink roses and swathes of red poppies. The turrets of kasbahs in a remote village cn be seen with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the background.Also well worth a visit is nearby Skoura which has old kasbahs and mellahs with impressive gardens.

The fresh mountain air has a hint of fresh roses which provides opportunities for walks and hiking and a long drive through the Hdida Valley to the plateau of Imi-n-Louh. There are a number of ruined kasbahs to explore and many opportunities to meet the local communities. The Damascene roses were said to have been introduced into the valleyin the tenth century by Morocans returning from Mecca.They grow in profusion in pinks and reds throughout the valley and in the hedgrows. In the Spring you can buy a garland of roses from one of the local children who line the route.

The Dades Gorge in the valley of the roses and the Todra Gorge provide some of the most spectacular scenery in the south of Morocco. The Dades Gorge runs along the Dades River valley separating the Atlas Mountains from the Anti Atlas. The Gorge is best known for its scenary stunning scenery and the Kasbahs overlooking the river below.

Gravity defying rock stacks in all shades of red dominate the skyline with deep gullies created by the persistent action of weathering and the river. After exploring the gorge, if you have a guide who knows the area it is possibble to venture deeper into the surrounding country side of the Anti Atlas. Some of the piste roads that lead off this are spectacular and properly remote and well worth taking a little more time to explore either by 4×4 or using a private tented camp as a base for exploring on foot.Continuing west brings the traveller Erfoud, a small town that for many acts as the entry point for Morocco’s western desert, the Erg Chebi. The dunes in this region are the main attraction and well worth visiting and climbing and Merzouga is close by.

For More Information About Morocco’s Rose Festival and Tours

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: Dades Valley, Hdida Valley, Kellat Des Mgouna, Morocco Tours, Rose Festival, Tours to Morocco, Travel Exploration Morocco, Valley of Roses
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Kelaa M’gouna, A Town of Roses & Home to Morocco’s Rose Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Morocco Festivals, Music Celebrations and Culture Festivals, Morocco Tours

Friday, January 25th, 2013

Celebration is an important aspect of Moroccan culture. Morocco is an exciting and entertaining country that lays claim to cultural, historical and religious holidays and festivals. At any given point of the year there is a Moroccan city or Berber community hosting glorious festivities. Moroccan celebrations can last anywhere from a few days up to two weeks. There are hundreds of local festivals and mouassems in Morocco. The dates when Morocco Festivals and moussems are someimes decided by religious authorites consulting the moon so dates oftheseevents are sometimes not announced very far ahead . Here are some of the more well known ones with exact dates in 2013, where available.

January Morocco Festivals

Marrakech International Marathon 2013 – Marrakech Tensift El Haouz ,Sunday, 27 January 2013

Departing from the Avenue de la Menara behind the Sofitel Hotel, the Marrakech International Marathon covers a distance of 42.195 kms (or 21.097 kms for half-marathon) the route winds its way through some of the city’s most picturesque attractions.

February Morocco Festivals

The Almond Blossom Festival

This beautiful spectacle takes place in Tafraoute where the trees are in full blossom for only a short time and whose colours greatly admired. The festival includes singing, dancing and other performances by the locals.

March Morocco Festivals

International Magic Festival at Marrakech 19-22 March 2013

The annual magic festival is held in Marrakech and has several performances by both international magicians and up and coming local artists. The festival has performances at the Royal Theatre in Marrakech and there is plenty of magic being

performed on the streets as well.

April Morocco Festivals

The Sand Marathon

The Sand Marathon is an incredibly gruelling marathon that covers 150 miles and lasts for 11 days. The marathon takes place in Ouarzazate, usually towards the beginning of April.

Grand Prix Hassan II

This popular motor racing event attracts some the very best players on the ATP World Tour and takes place at the Complexe Al Amal in Casablanca… more about the Grand Prix Hassan II

May Morocco Festivals

The Mawazine Festival 24 May – 1 June 2013.

This modern festival takes place in the city of Rabat and has several artists performing concerts that range from top international performers to local artists, past performing stars include Elton John and Sting. Also on offer are art exhibitions and plenty of street entertainers to keep the huge crowds entertained.

Marrakech Grand Prix . This event has been revived and takes place in Marrakech 13-15 April 2013.

Desert Music Festival

The Desert music Festival offers an outstanding selection of music genres that ranges from traditional Moroccan music to music from international musicians from around the world. The event takes place annually in Errachidia.

Festival of the Roses in the Dades Valley in mid May, a small oasis town called Kelaa-des-Mgouna is home to Morocco’s largest rose water distillery plant. The entire town is fragrant and the spectacular harvest in May is celebrated with song and dance.

June Morocco Festivals

Fes Sacred Music Festival Saturday, 7 – 15 June 2013.

The festival offers a wide range of traditional music performed by both Moroccan musicians and those from around the world.

Under the theme of “Fes: Reflections of Andalusia, the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music” is one of the premier events presented by the Spirit of Fes Foundation. The stated goal of the Festival is to harness the power of the arts and spirituality to promote human and social development, and the relationships between peoples and varying cultures.

Essaouira Gnawa and World Music Festival ,Essaouira 20-23 June 2013.

This music festival based on the traditions of Gnawa music has grown to include musicians from all over the world. This successful annual festival has been around for a decade and venues are dotted all around the picturesque town of Essaouira.

The origins Gnawa music lie in a unique mixture of Berber, African and Arabic songs, religious rites and dance and was originally the music of African slaves.

July Morocco Festivals

The 48th Marrakech Popular Arts Festival (FNAP)

The festival features traditional Berber music, singing dancing, story tellers and entertainers and takes place in the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech. A full stage showof different regional tribal dancing expertly chereographed led by Maawalems takes place in the floodlit Badi Palace with other concerts and peformances taking place in other locations in the city.

August Morocco Festivals

Imilchil Marriage Festival August/September

This unique event is steeped in tradition and takes place in the village of Imichil close to Marrakech. The event provides local Berbers the opportunity to meet and agree to marry, with everyone wearing traditional dress along with plenty of music and dancing. Exact date for 2013 not yet announced.

Festival of Fantasia

The Festival of Fantasia or Tbourida involves traditionally dressed berber riders and their mounts charging with flintlocks which they fire with a thunderous roar at the end of the charge. It takes place in Meknes usually towards the beginning of the month, and offers participants the chance to show off their horses, riding ability and timing.

September Morocco Festivals

Imilchil is located high up in the lake plateau of the Middle Atlas Mountains inMorocco. In this quaint village you will find primarily Berber tribal clans who have a strong sense of culture and tradition that has been preserved for decades. The Imilchil Marriage Festival is the prime attraction of this village and takes place annually in September. Each September, the surrounding tribes, Aït Sokham and AïtBouguemmaz celebrate the Imilchil Marriage Festival, held in Souk Aam and Agdoud N’Oulmghenni. This festival, also known as September Romance, features the Aït Yaazza culture of an annual collective marriage where women search and choose their husband.

October Morocco Festivals

2-3 October El Jadida Horse Show. This is major international event including horse jumping,dressage and fantasia.

Tissa Horse Festival

The Tissa Horse Festival is held near Fes and provides the opportunity for hundreds of riders to compete against each other and show off their beautiful mounts and skills as horsemen.

Erfoud Date Festival Late September/ early October.

More than a million date palms are grown in the Erfoud region and after harvest, the party really starts. Local tribesmen come together for a 3 day festival dedicated to the sticky and delicious date. Berber tents play host to traditional dancing, food and music. There’s also a dromedary race

November Morocco Festivals

Tan Tan Moussem

This is a traditional festival gathering, of nomadic tribal members who come together in celebration of their culture and religion. The event takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December in the town of Tan Tan, to the south of Morocco.

Eid Al Adha Festival

During this annual festival, the Prophet Abraham is honoured with the sacrifice of a ram, goat or cow.

December Morocco Festivals

Casablanca International Art Fair

The art fair offers a huge selection of art forms such as sculptures and photography as well as workshops to participate in. The event takes place in the Exchange Office in Casablanca usually at the beginning of the month

For More Information About Morocco Tours and Morocco Festivals

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: Desert Music Festival, Fes Festival, Festival of Roses, Gnaoua Festival, Morocco Festivals, Morocco Festivals Tours, Morocco Mousseums, Morocco Travel, Travel Exploration
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Morocco Festivals, Music Celebrations and Culture Festivals, Morocco Tours

Dakka Marrakchia Music Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Friday, January 25th, 2013

Marrakech has been celebrating the Marrakchia Music festival since the Saadian dynasty in the 15th and early 16th century.It takes place in February each year and celebrates traditional music passed down by generations in honour of the seven patron saints or ‘Sabaatou Rijal’ of Marrakech.

The seven saints of Marrakech were: Qadi Ayad, Imam El Jazouli, Imam Souhayli, Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Sidi Abdelaziz Tabbaa, Sidi Abdellah El Gazouani and Abou El Abbas Essebti. To represent these seven saints, musicians from seven districts, the El Moukkaf quarter, Bin Laarassi, Bab D’Bagh, Derb Dabachi, Sabtiyyine, Cashbah and Ben Salah, take part in the festival. During the Dakka Marrakchia Festival ordinary locals, such as shopkeepers, artists and craftsmen, become the heart of the event, filling the air with traditional music choral chants and rhthyms.

Groups of male musicians perform with percussion instruments and drums accompanied bychoral chants. Instruments include the lakrakash, taarija, naffar and tara.The Asdekaa Nakhil Association (their name means “Friends of the Marrakech Palm Tree”) organises the festival each year.

The followers of the Saint El Jazouli played an important role during the Saadian dynasty by establishing zaouias to give religious support to their cause the music reflects the fervour of those times as well as the traditions and civic pride of Marrakech.

For More Information About Marrakech Tous and the Marrakchia Music festival

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: Marrakech, Marrakech Tours, Marrakechi Music Festival, Seven Saints of Marrakech, Travel Exploration Morocco, Travel to Morocco
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Dakka Marrakchia Music Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

The Excavation at Aghmat, Morocco’s Medieval Capital

Monday, December 24th, 2012

Aghmat Palace overview

The Medieval site of Aghmat can be found beside the modern village of Ghmat which is 30 km south east of Marrakech in the northern foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Professor Ron Messier, Professor Emeritus Middle Tenessee State University and Senior Lecturer in history at Vanderbilt University and his codirector Professor Abdallah Fili faculte des letters Universite d’El Jadida have been following a trail of gold a it was part of the camel caravan routes from sub-Saharan Africa through the ancient city of Sijilmassa which Ron Messier’s team excavated through to Morocco’s Medieval Capital, Aghmat. Coins minted in Sijilmassa have been found in an excavation in Jordan and Aghmat too minted coins for the Almoharavid empire which stretched into Spain.

The international archaeological program has been studying Aghmat Since June 2005 Medieval texts suggest that Aghmat existed before advent of Islam in the 7th Century. It flourished under the Idrissids in the 8th and 9th centuries and attained the rank of an Amazight city state in the late 10th Century. It became a capital under the Almoravid dynasty from 1056 to 1070 when the Almoravids moved their capital to Marrakech. Aghmat gradually declined in competition to Marrakech.

Aghmat Hammam

It was an important city for routes through the Atlas Mountains on the trans Saharan trade and attracted scholars from Ifriqiyya (Tunisia) and Andalusia. The site contains the tombs the Andalusian kings al-Mu’tamid ibn Abbad of Seville and Abdallah ibn Bulukhin of Granada. Zaynab Nafzawiyya settled in Aghmat married three successive rulers,the independent Maghrawa emir and the first two Almoravid emirs.

Aghmat consisted of two towns Aghmat Ourika and Aghmat Haylana home to Bani Masmuda tribesmen. It was a rich city fully irrigated and minting gold currency for the Almoravids.

The archaeological excavations have so far revealed a hammam , a palace and a mosque.the archaeological process of discovery is aided by modern equipment which can identify the ancient foundations which are now under ground. Ancient texts also describe the city providing valuable clues. The excavations have been conducted to ensure preservation as well as revealing what was buried beneath the surface. The hammam, the first structure to be excavated is remarkably well preserved and fragile areas have been supported whilst respecting the original integrity of the building and its original materials. When Aghmat declined and the hammam fell out of use it began a second life as a pottery and the excavation discovered the potter’s wheel. The palace was a typical Andalusian palace of the 14th Century and at the end of the 2011 excavation a separate level revealed occupation from the 9th -12^th Century under the Almoravids when Aghmat was their capital. The mosque which was definitively confirmed during the 2011 excavation was founded by Wattas ibn Kardus in 859AD. There were several phases to its construction. It was found to have a moveable minbar on wooden rails the only other of its kind was found in the mosque at the ancient city of Sijilmassa.The team also found an Islamic inscription from the Koran as they did in Sijilmassa. The inscription reads “God is the light of the heavens and the earth”

Excavations at Aghmat

In April 2007 the Aghmat Foundation was founded by a group of patrons under the leadership of Moulay Abdellah Alaoui to provide financial support for further excavations and the construction of a museum for the artifacts that have been found and for conservation and preservations of the excavations.In 2009 a partnership agreement between the Aghmat Foundation and the Moroccan Ministryof Culture which delegates to the Foundation matters of managing archaeological research, conservation and protection of the excavated remains and the opening of the site to the public.

It is easy to visit the site of Aghmat close to the village of Ghmat and the archeological work is a testimony to the close cooperation between the Moroccan Ministry Culture and The United States.

Excavation work continues each season and Professor Messier is working hard to achieve more sponsorship to support the continuing discovery process, which is more difficult since 2008 during the current economic downturn.

For more information about the Excavation at Aghmat, Marrakech Morocco or a Marrakech Tour

For More Information About Travel and Tours to Morocco plus highlights on Moroccan culture visit Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Tags: Aghmat, Excavation at Aghmat, Marrakech, Medieval site Morocco, Morocco Tours, Moulay Abdellah Alaoui, Travel Exploration Morocco, Travel to Morocco
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on The Excavation at Aghmat, Morocco’s Medieval Capital

Moroccan Jewelry and Tiznit, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Sunday, December 23rd, 2012

Morocco has an ancient tradition of jewelry craftsmanship which continues today. Morocco’s Jewish population grew over many centuries and they were the artisans who created the jewelry as the muslims for religious reasons would not work with silver and gold. The jews and the berbers intermarried and there were a number of jewish berber tribes.

Amber Necklace worn at Berber Marriage

Berber jewelry reflects tribal traditions and the berber woman’s jewelry was and still is and important part of her dowry. Photographs of Atlas tribes show them with large amber and necklaces and headbands of silver coins and hinged silver bracelets with intricate and symbolic designs. Necklaces also have semi precious stones and talismans. A common symbol to ward off the evil eye is the hand of Fatima, the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed. The splendour of this heritage is still alive today and it is one of the richest expressions of Morocco’s culture and style.

Two traditions of jewelry craftsmanship grew up in Morocco in the towns where the jewelry is often gold inlaid with precious stones and in the South and the sahara. Berber and Tuareg jewelry traditions intermingled and the Almoravid dynasty came from the sahara.

Amber Necklace with Tuareg Cross

The southern jewelry is of silver and bronze and women often wear ornaments of silver or bronze with geometric or floral shapes. Women wear fibula jewelry on a dress, on their chest and as hair ornaments. The fibula is a triangle often silver, engraved and decorated with colored stones, used to fix the hanging of the “Selham” or burnouse ( a cloak).

Ornate Silver hinged bracelet

In the south Atlas, the “Nbala”, hinged bracelet, is commonly made with beautiful and colorful patterns. In Tiznit, Tafraoute and Inezgane, jewelers sell in the bazaars old and unique pieces considered rare pieces of art. Taroudant is also well worth a visit.

The walled town of Tiznit is an important centre for jewelry and has an annual jewelry festival. It was founded in 1881 by Sultan Hassan I. It is located between the Atlantic coast and the Atlas mountains. It is the most famous place for silver-smith’s in Morocco and is also famous for ornate daggers and swords. There is a souk every Thursday and a thriving jewelry market. It is a good idea to visit the Ensemble Artisanal in Tiznit before launching into the souk and beginning to bargain. It gives you an idea of what is available, the different styles and importantly, the prices. The Ensemble Artisanal is a cooperative with fixed prices. The Ensemble des Artisnal on Avenue Mohammed V in Marrakech is also a good place to call into if you are planning to travel south and explore local markets and souks.

You need to be aware that some silver jewelry may be “Berber silver”, an alloy of silver, nickel and lead.

For more information about Moroccan Jewelry and Tiznit

By Colin Kilkelly

Tags: Amber, Moroccan Beads, Moroccan Jewelry, Moroccan Jewelry Tour, Tiznit Jewelry
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Moroccan Jewelry and Tiznit, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Moroccan Designers, Ahmed Laghrissi, Hicham El Madi and Myriam Mouabit, Morocco Tour Guide

Sunday, December 23rd, 2012

Moroccan Pottery Design, Ahmed Laghrissi

There are many Moroccan designers, artists and craftsmen breaking new ground and leading innovations in lifestyle and creativity. Moroccan Designers Ahmed Laghrissi, Hicam El Madi and Myriam Mourabit are three exceptional practioners of their art. All were born in Morocco and have been influenced by either great family artists, their environment and Moroccan visual arts and culture. When visiting Morocco on a Pottery and Zellij Tile Design tour or on your own, one can discover galleries, souks and private spaces filled with these and many other visual artists. Morocco is a mecca of great designers ranging from Moroccan pottery to furniture to tile work, painting and lighting.

Moroccan Pottery Designer, Ahmed Laghrissi

Ahmed Laghrissi

Born in 1962 his fatherand grandfather were potters in the traditonal coastal pottery centre of Safi where most Moroccan pottery is still created.The son of Laghrissi Abdelkader, a renowned artist and potter, Ahmed Laghrissi who was taught by Boujemaa Lamali a potery grandmaster in the early twentieth century.

He inherited his father’s passion for the trade and is now himself a master-potter in Safi. His creations are inspired by Arab-Muslim art, and are highly individualistic whilst retaining their classic identity based on berber traditions such as Zaian and calligraphy. His researches blend old and new techniques and colours sometimes using enamel bequeathed by his father.

Hicham El Madi

Hicham El Madi has lived in Marrakech for a number of years , he was born in Casablanca and studied at the Institute of Appllied Arts and worked in Paris for a software design company creating designs for may different companies including Louis Vuitton. He travelled in Pakistan,Oman, Syria, Vietnam and Tunisia. hbeganto design furniture and on moving to Marrakech he worked on furnishing appartments and moved naturally into interior design.

He finds his inspiration in the Moroccan craft industry. He creates from materials such as wood, molten aluminum and ceramics, to create contemporary interior decorations for riads, homes, shops, and hotels,working closely with local artisans, his creations are very popular with both Moroccan and foreign clients.

Moroccan Designer, Myriam Mourabit

Myriam Mourabit

She designs hand made objets d’art, that draw on the spirit and sensitivity of her cultural heritage.Her work focuses on the sensory relationship between materials and colour where the combination of nature and refined style are brought together in perfect harmony.

Her exclusive designer objets appear in several shops and galleries in Morocco and abroad, her creations are stylish designs inspired by henna art and “zouak”, with close links to the traditions of Morocco’s craftsmen.

She trained at the Duperré School of Applied Arts and the National School of Decorative Arts in Paris. She designs and develops commercial spaces and designs furniture for individuals using refined and high quality materials.

For more information about Moroccan Pottery and Zellij Tile Design Tour

Written by Colin Kilkelly

Tags: Ahmed Laghrissi, Hicham El Madi, Moroccan Artists, Moroccan craftsman, Moroccan Designers, Moroccan Potters, Morocco Travel, Myriam Mouabit, Pottery & Zellij Tile Design Tour, Tours to Morocco, Travel Exploration Morocco
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Moroccan Designers, Ahmed Laghrissi, Hicham El Madi and Myriam Mouabit, Morocco Tour Guide

Marrakech Voted Best African Destination, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Saturday, November 3rd, 2012

The “red hamra” city of Marrakech has been sited as the best African Destination of the Year by the 19th World Travel Awards. The winners of the “World Travel Awards” are chosen by travel agents around the world. The World Travel Awards gives agents the opportunity to select leading travel destinations. Marrakech is the first Moroccan city to win the this title. Other cities that were nominated were Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg (South Africa), along with Luxor (Egypt), Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) and Victoria Falls (Zambia).

Mosque of Koutoubia, Marrakech

Following in the foot steps of Trip Advisor, Marrakech was also selected as the sixth best destination in 2012. Trip Advisor, the leading review website is used by various kinds of travelers from around the world. Those looking for affordable luxury private tour to Marrakech (Morocco) and other leading destinations value Trip Advisor’s multitude of first unbiased reviews. When looking for the perfect hotel, restaurant, local activities or tours within a country like Morocco Trip Advisor serves as the perfect outlet for information

Marrakech has a reputation for being fashionable and has long drawn tastemakers ranging from designers, to actors, models, writers and foreigners looking to explore’s this cosmopolitan city that is surrounded by the majestic Atlas Mountains. From Marrakech’s stunning palaces, gardens, mosques, restaurants and nightclubs it serves as the perfect place to start any Morocco Tour.

For more information about a Marrakech Tour

Tags: Best African destination, Marrakech, Marrakech Tour, Morocco Travel, Tourism Marrakech, Tours to Morocco, Travel Exploration Morocco, World Travel Awards
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Marrakech Voted Best African Destination, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category

Denise Masson, “The Lady of Marrakech”, Your Morocco Tour Guide

10 Great Things to Do in Marrakech, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Moroccan Wine & Vineyards, Wine & Food Tasting Morocco Tour

Kelaa M’gouna, A Town of Roses & Home to Morocco’s Rose Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Morocco Festivals, Music Celebrations and Culture Festivals, Morocco Tours

Dakka Marrakchia Music Festival, Your Morocco Tour Guide

The Excavation at Aghmat, Morocco’s Medieval Capital

Moroccan Jewelry and Tiznit, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Moroccan Designers, Ahmed Laghrissi, Hicham El Madi and Myriam Mouabit, Morocco Tour Guide

Marrakech Voted Best African Destination, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Pages

Archives

Categories