Medina of Tetouan

Medina of Tetouan


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The medina of Tétouan was rebuilt by the end of the 15th century by refugees from the Reconquista (reconquest of Spain, completed by the fall of Granada in 1492), when the Andalusian Moors first reared the walls and then filled the enclosure with houses. The city is situated in the area of Morocco which was formerly ruled by Spain. It had a reputation for piracy at various times in its history. Tétouan has also been home of an important Sephardi Jewish community, which immigrated from Spain after the Reconquista and the Spanish Inquisition. The Jews lived in a mellah, separated from the rest of the town by gates which were closed at night.

Many of the houses belonging to aristocratic families, descendants of those expelled from Al-Andalus by the Spanish "Reconquista", possess marble fountains and have groves planted with orange trees. Within the houses the ceilings are often exquisitely carved and painted in hispano-moresque designs, such as are found in the Alhambra of Granada, and the tile-work for which Tetuan is known may be seen on floors, pillars and dados.

Medina of Tetouan (formerly known as Titawin)

Medina of Tetouan (formerly known as Titawin)


Tetouan was of particular importance in the Islamic period, from the eighth century, as the primary point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by returnees to this region after being expelled by the Spanish. This is visible in the architecture and art which reveal clear Andalusian influence. This is one of the smaller Moroccan medinas, but undoubtedly the most complete, which, subsequently, most buildings remained to outside influences.
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Jbel Dersa © Anassbarnichou2 More images ...
Outstanding universal value

Brief summary
The Medina of Tetouan has grown on the steep slopes of the Jebel Dersa. She had a particular importance in the Islamic period, from the eighth century, as the primary point of contact between Morocco and Andalusia. After the Reconquest, the town was rebuilt by returnees to this region after being expelled by the Spanish. This is visible in the architecture and art which reveal clear Andalusian influence. This is one of the smaller Moroccan medinas, but undoubtedly the most complete, which, subsequently, most buildings remained to outside influences.
The Medina of Tetouan is surrounded by a wall of history about 5 km long and access is through seven gates. The urban fabric is characterized by the main roads connecting doors giving access to each other and, on the one hand to open spaces (and small squares) and the monuments of collective interest such as fondouks, mosques, and zaouias areas for crafts and trade and, secondly, the secondary roads that lead to dead ends and residential blocks forming semi-private spaces. Real synthesis of Moroccan and Andalusian culture, the historic city of Tetouan has specific urban and architectural that influenced the architectural and artistic development at the time of the Spanish protectorate. The city of Tetouan is very famous for its School of Arts and Crafts (Dar Sanaa) and its National Institute of Fine Arts that reflect an ancient tradition and an openness to the world today.
Criterion (ii): The Medina of Tetouan reflects considerable influences of Andalusian civilization in late medieval times to the Muslim West. This is evident in the development of architecture, monumental arts and town-planning.
Criterion (iv): The Medina of Tetouan is a remarkable example of a fortified city on the Mediterranean coast, backed by a mountain landscape in northern Morocco. It shows an ancient occupation and during the Islamic period, it is of considerable importance, since it is the only passage between the Iberian peninsula and the interior of Morocco. Its rise from the early seventeenth century continued until the late eighteenth century and is reflected in its fortifications, its architecture, synthesis of Moroccan and Andalusian cultures, and its urban fabric.
Criterion (v): The strategic position of the Medina of Tetouan across the Strait of Gibraltar has played an important role as a junction point and transition between two civilizations (Spanish and Arabic) and two continents (Europe and North Africa).
Integrity (2009)
The property boundary includes all attributes that are necessary to express its outstanding universal value. Some attributes require conservation measures. The priority for conservation work is given to walls, doors and borjs (fortified watchtowers). The municipality is cooperating with the government of Andalusia (Spain) to perform rehabilitation work at the heart of the medina.
Authenticity (2009)
The authenticity of the medina is illustrated by its original urban fabric virtually intact and pregnant with its initial configuration, gates and fortifications. Their built in the eighteenth century and they still retain their shape and original materials. The medina has an original fabric that is characterized by the hierarchy of roads and the distribution of residential, commercial and backyard following a definite pattern. The real estate as a whole, as the zaouias, fountains, steam rooms, kilns, silos and historical, have kept their authenticity, whether in their shape, construction materials, and in their ornamentation or even, for some, in their function. The majority of homes are intact although some floors were added illegally and internal separations were performed.
Needs protection and management (2009)
Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly the law 22-80 (1981) on the Conservation of Moroccan heritage. There is a willingness and a strong belief among relevant departments, authorities and local associations to preserve and conserve the property. Responsibility for management and conservation is both the municipality, the planning department, local authorities and the Ministry of Culture. Being legally responsible for the conservation of cultural heritage in general, it directs and assists the various departments in their efforts for the preservation and conservation of the medina. The procedures and priorities are determined by the conservation recommendations and guidelines taken as part of the master plan study of the city of Tetouan. Development plans on regional and local medina are summarized in the Master of Tetouan, developed by the Department of Housing and Regional Planning in 1982, which gives great importance to the conservation and rehabilitation of the medina. The Spatial Development and Regional Planning from the northwestern region produced by the Regional Planning, Architecture and Planning in February 1996 has among its objectives, the obligation to retain and medina rehabilitation. The creation of the Regional Directorates of Culture since 2006 is in line with the establishment of an integrated conservation policy for local development policy. The development plan of the medina of Tetouan includes provisions for the conservation and management and takes into consideration the universal value of the site.
Long Description

[English only]
The Medina of Tetouan is year Exceptionally well-preserved example of full and this kind of historic town, displaying all the features of high Andalusian culture.
The origins of Tetouan are Not known, aim the discovery of archaeological sites, from prehistory and the classical period (Phoenician, Roman and Mauritanian-Punico) in the immediate surroundings of the town attest to the antiquity of the settlement of the valley in general Oued Martil and the site of Tetouan In Particular.
In the Islamic période the Tetouan Region Became very significant as the only connection Between the Iberian Peninsula and the interior of Morocco. As a result, a number of towns Grew up, Such as Ceuta, Tangier and Qasr es-Saghir. Tetouan is Mentioned by a number of Arab writers of the 10th-12th centuries, fired, return not aim it assumes significant role Until year the after the fall of Ceuta and Other centers on the coast to Spanish and Portuguese troops Towards the end of the Middle Ages.
A fortified garrison (Kasbah) HAD beens installed at the site of Tetouan by Sultan Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Marini in 1286 to block Ceuta. The town grew up in the early 14th century, goal WAS sacked and completely Call Destroyed by Spanish forces has century later. It Was rebuilt at the end of the 15th century by a group of Refugees from Andalusia During The Reign of Sultan Mohammed ash-Shaykh al-Wattassi. The late 15th-century town was small, the characteristics of, the present-day al-Balad quarter and a kasbah, built to the Requirements of Abu al-Hassan Ali al-Mandri, military leader of Banu al-Ahmar of Granada.
The second internship in ict development cam in the mid-16th century medina When The WAS extended to the south-west, the al-Rabat Asfal quarter. Finally, the arrival of the Moriscos (Spanish Muslims forcibly to Christianity and later her assets Expelled from Spain) from 1609 onwards led to a further Top expansion of the medina Towards the north-west. This Continued Until the mid-18th century, rebuilt Were When The fortifications, the medina to Give icts Existing Configuration.
Developed Tetouan on the stepped slopes of the Jabal Dersa. It Consists of Two quadrilaterals of more or less EQUAL size ALONGSIDE Each Other, Giving overalls year outline of a figure-of-eight.
The defensive walls are about 5 km long, with a number of Buttresses and defensive works on the exterior of the wall, Such as the bastions of Bab Bab al-Oqla and in-Nwader on the north and the star-shaped bastion at the north -east corner. Access is by means clustering of seven historic gates. Inside, the medina is crossed by the main streets linking gates with plans blew. These provide statement moyen de access to open spaces, to public buildings Such as the funduqs (inns), mosques and zawayas (religious speakers), and to the artisan and trading quarters. Lanes lead from the main streets to private residential quarters.
Source: UNESCO / CLT / WHC
Historical description

The origins of the city of Tetouan are still unknown, but the discovery of archaeological sites from prehistoric and classical times (Phoenician, Punic and Roman-Mauritania) in the immediate environment of the city testify to ancient occupation WLE Valley of the Oued Martil in general and the particular site of Tetouan.
During the Islamic period, the region of Tetouan is WLE considerable importance, since it is the only passage between the Iberian peninsula and the interior of Morocco. Several cities then come out of earth, like Ceuta, Tangier and Ksar-es-Saghir. Between the 10th and 12th centuries, Tetouan is mentioned by various Arab writers, but not until the late Middle Ages after the fall of Ceuta and other coastal centers in the hands of Spanish and Portuguese troops, to see the play an important role.
In 1286, Sultan Abu Youssef Yacoub el-Marini erected a fortified garrison (Casbah) on the site of Tetuan to Ceuta block. In the early 14th century, the city grows, it will be looted and completely destroyed by Spanish forces Wl century later. It was rebuilt at the close of the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Mohammed ash-Sheikh ei-Wattassi by Wis. group of refugees from Andalusia. At the end of the 15th century, the city is not very extensive: restricted to the current district of al-Balad and fortified kasbah Wie, she meets the requirements of Abu al-Hassan Ali elMandri, military leader of Banu ei-Ahmar of Granada.
The second phase of its development began in the mid-16th century, with the extension of the medina to the southwest (area of ​​Rabat did Asfal). Lastly, from 1609, the arrival of the Moriscos (Spanish Muslims forcibly converted to Christianity and later expelled from Spain) WLE contributes to further expansion of the Medina, to the northwest this time (district of Rabat al-Aala). This growth continues until the middle of the 18th century reconstruction of the fortifications which will give the medina its current configuration.

Fez Medina

Fez Medina

Founded in the ninth century and home to the oldest university in the world, Fez reached its height in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, under the Marinids, when it replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the medina roots in this period: madrasah, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques, fountains, etc.. Despite the transfer of the registered capital of Rabat, in 1912, has retained its status of cultural and spiritual capital of the country.

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Panoramic © Barbara Blanchard More images ...

Outstanding universal value

Brief summary

The medina of Fez retains, in a piecemeal former high concentrations of monuments, the memory of the capital founded by the dynasty Idrisid between 789 and 808 AD. The original town consisted of two large and fortified neighborhoods separated by the Wadi Fez: the shore of the Andalusians and that of Kairouan. In the eleventh century, the Almoravids met the city within one wall and under the Almohad dynasty (twelfth and thirteenth centuries), the original town (Fes el-Bali) already took its present size. Under the Merinids (thirteenth-fifteenth century), a new city (Fez Jedid) was founded (in 1276) west of the former (Fez el-Bali). It houses the Royal Palace, the headquarters of the army, fortifications and residential areas. By this time, both entities of the medina of Fez evolve symbiotically constitute one of the great Islamic cities embody a wide variety of architectural forms and urban landscapes. They include a considerable number of monuments of a religious, civil and military materialize a culture of multiple influences. This architecture is characterized by techniques of construction and decoration developed over more than ten centuries, and which mingled with the knowledge and local know-how and inspiration of different external (Andalusian, Eastern, and African). The Fez medina is considered one of the largest historic cities and best preserved of Arab-Muslim world. Urban space carriage will not keep most of its functions and responsibilities of origin. It is not only an architectural, archaeological and unique urban, but it also conveys a lifestyle, know-how and a culture that persist and recur in spite of the various effects of changes in modern societies.

Criterion (ii): The Fez medina is a living testimony to a flourishing city of the West Mediterranean with considerable influence mainly from the twelfth to the fifteenth century, the development of architecture, monumental arts and the urban development, particularly in North Africa, Andalusia and in sub-Saharan Africa. Fez Jadid (the New), was inspired by the urban model of anterior Marrakech.

Criterion (v): The Fez medina is an outstanding example of a medieval city founded in the earliest centuries of Islamization of Morocco and embodying an original type of human settlement and land-traditional representative of urban culture Moroccan on a long historical period (ninth in the early twentieth century). The former plot with its high density of monuments of a religious, civil and military of the medina are the witnesses of this culture and the result of its interaction with various layers of settlement that determined the variety of architectural forms and townscape .

Integrity (2009)

The delimitation of the property inscribed on the World Heritage List is clear and appropriate and it includes all the urban fabric and the walls. The protection zone defined by the decrees of August 23, 1923 and October 29, 1954 adequately protects the visual integrity. The medina of Fez includes an urban fabric that has remained remarkably consistent and intact over the centuries. The main problems that we see concerning the dilapidated buildings and the overdensity of the occupation of space. The edge of the medina are integral to the quality of the visual aspect of its environment and must be kept non-building zone. They are vulnerable to uncontrolled urban development pressures.

Authenticity (2009)

All key elements that make up this reflect a full and clear the outstanding universal value. The survival of traditional architectural expertise, particularly in the construction trades and architectural decoration, is a major asset in maintaining the values ​​of the property. The Ministry of Culture is trying with difficulty to bring the various stakeholders to respect the authenticity of the property.

Needs protection and management (2009)

The Fez medina is protected by local and national legislation to strengthen protection and, locally, was inscribed on the World Heritage List, including Decree No. 2-81-25 of 22 October 1981 for the application of Law No. 22-80 concerning the conservation of historic monuments and sites, inscriptions, art objects and antiques.

Taking into account the vulnerability of the property, the State has adopted a development plan of the medina in 2001. The frequency of reassessment of the plan is 10 years. It contains specific provisions for the former sector, and is called to streamline and organize urban interventions required. As part of a program to promote regional tourism, local authorities have taken action for the Protection of derelict houses and rehabilitation of important monuments of the medina. The implementation of this program is entrusted to the Agency of De-densification and Rehabilitation of the Fez medina. The inspection of historical monuments under the Ministry of Culture and monitors and supervision of these projects in accordance with national and international standards in conservation of historical monuments.

Long Description

The Holy City of Fez, a jewel of Spanish-Arabic civilization, is outstanding year and well-preserved example of ancient capital of the year and the Almoravids Almohads in the North African context, despite the destruction of the city and the transfer of the capital to Rabat. The Medina of Fez in ict old, densely packed buildings - madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - is the memory of the Capital Founded in year 192 of the Hegira (808) by Idriss II.

The ancient city, home to The Oldest university in the world, is Composed of Two separate centers. One is the quarter of the Andalusians, a population That Fled from the masters of Umayyad Cordoba and Who to settle definitively cam on the right bank of the Fez. The Other is the quarter of the Quarawiyyia, people have emigrated from Kairouan in the 11th century Who thing the left bank of the river to Develop Their activities.

Despite the destruction of a considerable proportion of the city by the Almoravids, the dynasty That Took power in the 11th century, The Two Two quarters Grouped around major monuments, the Jama el Andalus (the Mosque of the Andalusians) and the mosque of El Karaouiyne , Have Preserved Their identities intact in the old city of Fez el Bali.

In the 13th century, the after the conquest Merinid, When the city found soi constrained Within icts walls, a new city, Fes el Jadid, WAS Founded Directly to the west, in ah 674 by the Sultan Abu Yusuf. It mittal Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. In the 14th century a Jewish quarter, the Mellah, WAS joined to the newly Founded city. The urban fabric and the main monuments in the Medina dates from this extended period.

Since then, the twin cities has led Have symbiotic existence without Losing Their Own character. Fez is at once astonishing year city-museum and one of the Largest Islamic metropolises In Which the demography: various strata Have Determined the greatest Variety of architectural forms and urban landscapes.

Having beens deserted since 1912 to the advantage of the modern city, the capital of Morocco politique WAS Transferred to Rabat, Fez goal HAS icts Retained status as the country's cultural and spiritual center.

Ksar d'Aït-Ben-Haddou

Ksar d'Aït-Ben-Haddou

Set of earthen buildings surrounded by walls, the Ksar is a traditional pre-Saharan habitat type. The houses crowd together within the defensive walls, reinforced by corner towers. Ait Ben Haddou, situated in Ouarzazate province, is a striking example of the architecture of southern Morocco.
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© Yvon Fruneau More images ...
Outstanding universal value

Brief summary
Located on the foothills of the southern slopes of the High Atlas in the province of Ouarzazate, the site of Ait Benhaddou is most famous ksour Valley Ounila. The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a striking example of the architecture of southern Morocco. The Ksar is a group of homes essentially collective. Inside walls reinforced defensive corner towers and pierced by a door baffle, crowd many houses, some modest, others by small figure of urban castles with their tall corner towers decorated at the top of mud-brick decorative, but also buildings and community spaces. This is an extraordinary complex of buildings offering a complete panorama of earth building techniques presaharic. The oldest buildings do not appear earlier in the seventeenth century, although their structure and technique are propagated from a very early period in the valleys of southern Morocco. The site was also a trading post on the trade route that linked the ancient Sudan to Marrakech by the Dra Valley and the Tizi-n'Telouet. In architectural terms, the structure of the habitat is in the form of a compact group, closed and suspended. The public spaces of Ksar consist of a mosque, a public square, the threshing of grain outside the ramparts of a fortification and a loft at the top of the village, a caravanserai, two cemeteries (Muslim and Jewish) and the shrine of the saint Sidi Ali or Amer. The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a perfect synthesis of earthen architecture of pre-Saharan regions of Morocco.
Criterion (iv): The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is an outstanding example of southern Morocco Ksar illustrating the main types of earthen structures that we observe from the seventeenth century in the valleys of Dra, Todra, Dades and Souss.
Criterion (v): The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou illustrates the traditional habitat in soil, representative of South Moroccan culture, become vulnerable under the influence of socio-economic and cultural irreversible.
Integrity (2009)
All structures that make up the Ksar are well within the buffer zone and protect its environment. The earthen buildings are very vulnerable to lack of maintenance and repair due to continued neglect of the Ksar by its inhabitants. CERKAS (Centre de conservation and rehabilitation of the architectural heritage of the Atlas and sub-Atlas) before, not without difficulty, to respect the visual integrity of the property.
Authenticity (2009)
Compared to other ksour the region, the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou has preserved its architectural authenticity level, shapes and materials. The architectural style is well preserved and earthen structures are perfectly adapted to climatic conditions and harmonize with the natural and social environment.
The great houses down the village, whose decorative motifs are conserved, are well maintained. The materials used for construction are earth and wood. The attempts of introduction of cement have so far failed, thanks to continual monitoring of the Compliance Committee of the offenses (rural commune, Division of Urban Planning, Urban Agency, CERKAS). Only a few lintels and rebar reinforced concrete have escaped his vigilance, but they were hidden under earth plasters. Special attention is also paid to doors and windows overlooking the streets, to ensure that the metal does not replace the wood.
Needs protection and management (2009)
Protection measures are essentially different laws listing of historic monuments and sites, particularly the law relating to 22-80 Moroccan heritage. The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou currently has a management plan that lasts five years (2007-2012). This management plan is the result of two years of reflection and workshops involving all persons and institutions concerned with the future of the site, including local people. The recommendations of this plan are underway. In addition, two committees have been created (a local and a national committee) in which all stakeholders are represented and collaborate in decision making. At the same time he manages well, CERKAS coordinates the implementation of this management plan.
Long Description


























Ait Ben Haddou year is outstanding example of a southern Moroccan ksar illustrant hand the kinds of Building To Be Observed in the valleys of Dra, Todra, Dades and Under.
The earthen constructions of southern Morocco are Rightly Celebrated, for THEY Particular Represent a family of pre-Saharan architecture, Which is common to all Countries of the Great Maghreb, Mauritania and Libya. It Is not That the introduction of some consoling or thesis buildings dates back to Islamization and to the foundation of Sijilmassa in 757, it is likely purpose (although The Oldest Testimonies do not APPEAR To Be From Before the 17th century) That Were Their structure and technical propagated from a very early time in Jebel and in the valleys of the south.
The typology of this traditional habitat is Extremely Diversified. Large houses, Called tighremt in Berber kasbah and gold in Arabic dar, bring together, around a central rectangular courtyard, tall fortified wings oven, topped by corner towers. In Some boxes THEY allow entrance to lower houses connected Situated around a second courtyard Which year HAS pregnant.
The kasbah of southern Morocco is the family unit of the wealthy classes and multiple HAS varied forms and functions. For the MOST part, They Are country houses, the ground floor is Used For and Agricultural Purposes and the upper floors serve as living quarters in winter (upper portion) and summer (lower portion). Adjoining houses are reserved for Agricultural Workers, as Skura in the Oasis. The kasbah can, however, be has aussi real palace-fortress, the seat of local power, as in the ancient area of ​​Glaua, and in Taurirt in Teluet. It then Takes on the size of a small village.
In contrast to the kasbah, the family unit is the Ksar (plural ksour), Which is Mainly a collective grouping. Inside the defensive walls, Which are reinforced by corner towers EACH with a zigzag-shaped gate, houses crowd together. Some are modest, others resemble small castles With Their urban high angle towers Whose upper portion decorative motifs present in clay brick. Purpose There are buildings and community aussi Areas: Collective sheep pens and stable lofts and silos, market place, meeting room for the assembly of family chiefs, mosque, madrassa, etc..
Ait Ben Haddou year is extraordinary set of buildings Offering a full panorama of pre-Saharan building techniques (ramming mass Worked Into header panel brick and bull, Moulded ordinary earth, clay brick, etc..) As well as consoling or a miniature of the architectural typology of southern Morocco. An astonishing loft overlooks the mountain-fortress Against Which the Ksar is located. The lofts (agadir Ighram gold) are not uncommon in Morocco, aims Their defensive character is not always as obvious as in the present case by the choice of a site on high and a fortification system linking the loft with the village Conceived as the last bastion of resistance in the event of a siege.

PRESENTATION

PRESENTATION

Created at a general meeting held in Rabat on 10.23.01, in accordance with the provisions of the Decree of 15 November 1958, Morocco-Cultures Association is a nonprofit that has set itself the task of ensuring the public of Rabat-Salé-Zemmour Zaers, a cultural and artistic animation of a highly professional level, worthy of the capital of the Kingdom.
Morocco-Cultures materialize this noble mission including the prestigious festival "Mawazine-Rhythms of the World" scheduled each year in May: an international theme that introduces the general public, in entertainment, artistic expressions of Morocco and the world whole.
This mission is illustrated also in various events organized as part of the extension activities of the Association, including the support Mawazine Generation, multidisciplinary symposia, exhibitions of visual art, concerts ... and all forms of cultural and artistic activities of citizens to their grounding in the core values ​​of development policy by His Majesty the King Mohammed VI.

Hiking and Trekking

Hiking and Trekking

Although rugged, the mountain ranges of Morocco are ideal for hikers and trekkers. The wild beauty of the Moroccan mountains attracts several hikers and trekkers. A network of stopovers including guides and monitors are available throughout these ranges. You can take a bus or opt for a collected taxi in order to reach to the starting point. A rental four-wheel drive can also be ideal to reach the starting point.

One of the most popular trek routes in the area is the route from Imlil, the beautiful and picturesque village to Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak of North Africa. The starting point to this route is about an hour's drive away from Marrakech. Small hotels, refuges and resting places can be found all through the trekking trail. Although trekking can be possible all through the year, April to October is considered to be the best time for trekking. Canyons and gorges become difficult to navigate during the storms, which can be avoided during this period.

More information about trails and refuges can be obtained from:

The Moroccan National Tourist Office or The Club Alpin Français, BP. 6178 Casablanca 01 Tel: +(212) 2 27 00 90 Fax: +(212) 2 29 72 92

Royal Moroccan Ski & Mountaineering Federation, Parc de la Lique, Arabe, BP 15899, Casablanca Tel: +(212) 2 203798 Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Horse Riding

One of the most ideal ways to explore the beauties of Morocco can be on horseback if you enjoy horse riding. You can cut across a trail along the white sandy beaches or through the sand dunes and date trees on horse back in Morocco that can provide you with an experience of a lifetime. The town of Tetouan is one of the best areas to sightsee riding a horse with its fascinating landscapes. Some of the other main riding centers are Agadir, Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca, Ouirgane, Ouida and Tangier.

Horses can be hired in Ad'Dahkla. Exploring the Kasbah Trail or the magnificent surrounding sub-Saharan region can be a wonderful experience on horseback.

Camel Trekking

A ride on the camel can be one of the most memorable experiences during your stay in Morocco. Although it may not be the most comfortable ways of exploring the country, it certainly will be one of the most unique one. Camel trek expeditions Morocco can be of one day or two weeks. September to February is the best time to opt for a ride on the camel. The Erg Chebbi sand dunes at Merzounga, the Draa Valley (Tinfou and Zagora) and the M'Hamid area are some of the most popular areas for camel riding. The ancient trans-Saharan camel caravan trade route stretching from Marrakech to Rissani can also be an exciting experience that combines the use of camels and land rovers. The journey takes twelve days to complete where you can travel down the historical trade route.

Rallying

Some of the greatest international automotive competitions are held in Morocco such as the Atlas and Paris-Dakar rallies. With over thousands of miles of tracks, interested individuals can choose from a number of challenging routes.

Mountain Biking

Some of the spectacular countryside can be explored only through mountain biking, on foot or on horseback. This off-road vehicle is undoubtedly one of the best ways to know Morocco with its deserts, beaches and inaccessible rugged mountain ranges.

Surfing

Surfing along the Atlantic waves or sliding along the snowy slopes of the Atlas or sliding through the sand dunes provide a number of options to choose from for all those who love surfing.

Royal Moroccan Surfing Federation: - Casablanca Tel: +(212) 2 259530 Fax: +(212) 2 236385

Water Sports

The Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts offer several kinds of water sports. Sailing, yachting, rowing, canoeing, windsurfing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and water skiing are some of the options tourists can choose from. For more information tourists may contact:

Royal Moroccan Sailboat Federation Rabat Tel: - +(212) 7 670956

Royal Moroccan Yacht Club Rabat: +(212) 7 720264 Mohammedia Tel: +(212) 3 322331

Royal Moroccan Water Skiing & Jetski Federation Casablanca Tel +(212) 2 274938 Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Aerial Sports

Several aeroclubs in Morocco provide aerial sport activities such as gliding, parachuting, aviation, deltaplane and hot air ballooning.

Royal Moroccan Federation for Light Aviation & Aerial Sports Rabat Tel: +(212) 7 708347 Fax: +(212) 7 706958

Golf

Golf has been a national passion of the country for a long time. Several golf competitions are arranged in Morocco, inviting expert golfers from all over the world. The annual Hassan II is the most famous trophy that is played at the Royal Golf Club, Dar Es-Salam, Rabat. Some of the other major golf courses are located in Cabo, Negro, Meknes, Tangier, Mohammedia, Casablanca and Ben Slimane. Also important are Agadir, El Jadida and Ouarzazate.

Fishing

Fishing in the quiet waters can be really enjoyable in Morocco. A number of lakes and rivers are found all over the country that provides a perfect setting for fishing. Pike, Trouts, Roach, Carp, Eels, Black Bass, Barbels and Perchs are available in plenty in these lakes and rivers. Usually the optimum fishing season is considered to be from May to June, although it depends largely on the species of the fish. Tourists can also indulge in deep-sea fishing with an abundance of sea perch, mullet, Bonitos, Chad and sea breams. Ports such as the Sakhla in Sahara and Mohammedia near Casablanca are fully equipped for deep-sea fishing, especially for fishing Tuna, Marlin and Swordfish.

Moroccan National Fisheries Office - BP 20300, Casablanca, Tel: +(212) 2 240551 Fax: +(212) 2 242305

Tennis

Exciting and challenging tennis games can be played at all major resorts of the country. Most of the tennis games are played on clay courts,

HIKING & TREKKING

Trekking The High Atlas of Morocco
7 day trekking itinerary in the High Atlas, with their snow-capped peaks, hidden valleys, and ancient Berber villages, have enticed hikers from across the world. Experience this extraordinary private luxury hiking tour. click to read itinerary

In Morocco, the four mountain ranges including the ATLAS chain and the RIF mountain range, provide an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy trekking, hiking and climbing. All of them are accessible to people in good physical condition. Perhaps the most popular is Le Deren, in the High Atlas. Certain peaks of the High Atlas remain snow-capped throughout the year.

Of all the mountain sports practiced in Morocco, trekking (on foot or by ski) is one of the best ways to appreciate this vast and little-visited area. The mountains are beautiful and wild, yet they are well organised for hikers with qualified guides, a good network of refuges for night stopovers, hire of pack mules and cross country bikes

A list of refuges can be obtained from The Moroccan National Tourist Office or The Club Alpin Français, BP. 6178 Casablanca 01  Tel: +(212) 2 27 00 90  Fax: +(212) 2 29 72 92

Royal Moroccan Ski & Mountaineering Federation,   Parc de la Lique, Arabe, BP 15899, Casablanca  Tel: +(212) 2 203798  Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Steve Coupland - Mt Toubkal Climb June 2002
Steve Coupland is planning to climb Mt Toubkal to raise money for breast cancer care, funding all expenses himself. See his full itinerary and make a donation at his website..