Détails Blog

Description of the blog

Who does not know the architectural beauty of buildings in Morocco? The majority of us have already been charmed by the different architectural styles represented throughout our towns, villages and other tourist spots. Moroccan architecture is an art that can be found in all corners of the country. Whatever your address, you are never far from its influence. From the riad style to the fortifications of Fez, through traditional Berber architecture, the architectural landscape in Morocco is authentic and unique. This article offers 5 examples of Moroccan buildings with unique architecture that you will not find elsewhere.

Traditional Berber architecture

The majority of Berber dwellings in Morocco are one or two storey houses, and souks. Berber architecture is characterized by the simplicity of its plan, the use of local materials and the concern for adaptation to the climatic conditions of the country.

The typical form of the Berber house is a long room in which the rooms (kitchen, living room, bedroom) are arranged around a central courtyard. The exterior walls can be stone or brick. The main door still has a large dimension which allows air and heat waves to circulate freely inside. The staircase is located next to the main door to facilitate return trips to the upper floors.

Riad architecture

If the term "riad" is unknown to you, know that this typical Moroccan architecture is represented by a house inside a semi-covered courtyard. This architectural style, originating in Alexandria and then popularized in Morocco, is found in the various cities and regions of the country.

The riads are private or public houses, the particularity of which is that they have an interior courtyard and a patio. The courtyard which constitutes the whole interest of this architectural style was once covered and served as a vegetable garden or for ablutions before prayer. Over time, the buildings that made up the inner courtyard have been replaced by walls to furnish living rooms such as the extendable kitchen, living room or dining room.

Andalusian architecture

If you travel to Fez, do not miss the Andalusian architecture. This architecture represents a unique and original style, which is unlike any other style of architecture in Morocco. Andalusia is the region in the south of the Iberian Peninsula which includes what is now Spain and the former Spanish colonies: the south of North Africa (Morocco), the south of Tunisia (Tunisia) and the south of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands).

The Fortifications of Fez

The Fortifications of Fez are the largest medieval fortifications in Morocco. They date from the 16th century and were built to defend the city of Fez from external attacks. This remarkable building is shown to all visitors to Fez.

Conclusion

Architecture is an art that can be found in every corner of the country. Whatever your address, you are never far from its influence. From the riad style to the fortresses of Fez, through the traditional Berber architecture, the architectural landscape in Morocco is authentic and unique. This article offers 5 examples of Moroccan buildings with unique architecture that you will not find elsewhere.