Morocco Traditions

Islam is the state religion of Morocco - Sunni Muslims make up about 99% of the population. Christians not more than 0,8%, Jews - about 0,2%.

At the importunity of street vendors and "guides" to answer politely but firmly refused. Soliciting is a serious problem for foreign tourists in Morocco.

Away do not give second and third cup of tea with mint - it is considered impolite.

Answer all questions, even if they seem immodest to you (what you pay, how much is the camera, how call your wife) - these are manifestations of politeness and friendliness in Morocco.

The country has a sufficiently complex system of ceremonies, built on the dates of the Islamic calendar. Civil holidays are observed rather modest, Muslim, by contrast, often accompanied by magnificent views and ceremonies. The most important holiday - Ramadan, when during daylight true Muslim observes abstinence, but after the sun goes down almost everywhere open restaurants, retail outlets and entertainment facilities. During Eid al-Saghir (lasts three to four days) are organized carnivals, parades and street performances until the morning.

Two-week Festival of Folk Arts in Marrakech, is held annually in June or the fall in the ruins of the palace of al-Badia. This is the most ambitious presentation of the country folk, in which is a lot of variety shows and events folklore troupes from all over Morocco. Interesting Festival in Rose el-Kela M'Guna (May), Festival of wax in Sale (conducted in the period Maulid), Cherry Festival in Sefru (June), the International Festival of Sacred Music in Fez (June), the International Festival of Rabat (June) Festival of Camels in Goulimine (July), Festival of popular music in Saida (August), the Cultural Festival in Asila (August), Festival in Erfoud (October), in the Tisza Equestrian Festival (October), a unique sandy Marathon (234 km. in the desert! ) etc.

"Mousse" - traditional religious ceremonies of local importance, passing on certain days and on certain events (total in the country each year passes, more than 650 such celebrations). In the "mousse" is usually held numerous pilgrimages and folk events - Jighitovka, fairs, dance shows and tribal rituals. Especially colorful the September mussemy Sidi Abdallah Ben Yassin, Al Guerna and Sidi Bonatinana in Marrakesh. Also, great care using mousse Setty Fatma (late August), mousse affianced in Imilchile (3rd week of September), mousse dates "in Erfoud (October), mousse, Sidi Mohammed bin Nasser (the day of Ashura), mousse Roses "El Kelaa-Mguna (late May), mousse Asni (June), Mousseau Goulimine (May), almond mousse" in Ouarzazate (February), mousse milk "in Imuzzet-des-Ida (August) , mousse in Essaouira (May), mousse Valley URICA (August), etc.