“There are certain places on the surface of the Earth that possess more magicthan others, and of these places is MARRAKECH.” Paul Bowles
When we think of a country invading other, we can hardly think of some positive aspects. What usually comes to our mind are strong rulers, one country’s implementation of their ways and lifestyle on others, country losing or least changing its culture just because of that invasion.
But, when I thought it from an architectural perspective, I gained a different angle. Hasn’t it been invasion that allowed many countries to have different, contrasting, and well-flourished architecture? Invasion by different countries bought different cultures along with different building needs and they for sure differ in style, techniques, and elements. Not always these changes are good as some made their way by suppressing the existing, which in a way is simply wrong. But if nothing is destroyed or suppressed, and new things are welcomed, then it certainly adds value to a country’s heritage, culture, lifestyle and in many other ways.
One such country in Morocco. It is one of the many countries that is surely invaded by a number of countries. Morocco is a Northern-African country. Its unique location is the reason for its multiple invasions. To the North of it is the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic Ocean in the West, Algeria in the East, and Western Sahara surrounds it in the South. It a piece of land that is surrounded by both land and water that made it a passing route for many traders. This route made it an easily accessible country and welcomed many rulers which along with them bought their culture and architecture styles and began making their style of buildings. One can say that Moroccan architecture is a tapestry of influences, mainly by the African tribes, Islamic traditions from Arab neighbours, and European colonizers.
Moroccan architecture can be broadly categorized into 4 styles, namely Berber, Islamic, Hispano-Moor, and French. Let’s take a look on them.
Berber Architecture • Berber is an ethnic native group of Morocco. • This style developed the first major architectural traditions of the region in 1100 BCE. • Mud bricks were used as a dominant architectural material. • Solid, large, imposing building looks were constructed, known as ‘Pise’. • The basic purpose behind large blocks was protection and security. • What stands out of this style is the recurrent use of the same materials and pattern designs.
Islamic Architecture
Most significant architectural style witnessed in Morocco.
• Made its appearance in the 7th century with the arrival of Idris, who created the Idrisid dynasty.
• He bought his religion along with him and encouraged the Berber clan to convert to Islam.
• Arrival of new religion meant new religious places, and for Islam, it is a mosque that was designed to be individual and distinctive.
• New introduced elements were –
I. Courtyard layouts,
II. Zellij (tilework whereby geometric tiles are used to form eye-catching and convoluted patterns and it is known as the “Prince of Tiles.”)
III. Fountains
IV. The prohibition of the use of images of live beings (humans and animals) for decorative imagery
V. Use of integrate geometric patterns and floral motifs (also known as arabesques)
VI. Horseshoe arches at entrances
VII. Decorative calligraphy
Hispano-Moor Architecture
• When the Moors (an Islamic Berber population in Morocco) crossed the Strait of Gibraltar and conquered most of Spain and Portugal in the
• 8th century, most Islamic influences were sent to Spain and also bought several Spanish influences back into Morocco.
• Its elements show a blend of European and Islamic cultures.
• Spanish influences include the white, stucco walls and red-tiled roofs.
• The European style of arches can also be seen.
• Andalusian gardens – The landscape of the Alhambra garden in Granada is the greatest inspiration for Moroccan public and private gardens.
French Architecture
• France occupied Morocco and began colonizing it in the 20th century.
• French architectural elements were blended well and can still be found throughout Morocco.
• Gardens and courtyards are blended with Islamic ideals.
• In Islamic architecture, little emphasis was given on windows as they violate the division of public and private space, whereas in French influenced architecture large windows were provided with more functionality.
When I named this blog “ESCAPE THE ORDINARY”, its simply because when I first got aware of the Moroccan architecture, I was mesmerized. Starting from basic dwellings to Palaces to Kasbahs to Medersas, every building has its own unique feature.Every building gives a royal vibe even if its Berber style with no ornamentations. The architectural style of Morocco is influenced by contrasting styles yet each style is blended into others like a recipe of cake having different layers yet each layer has its own uniqueness. This whole fusion and unique architecture make Moroccan architecture stand out giving us a lesson on how one can learn from every style, taking its elemnts, adding some of others unique elements, and creating a whole new architectural style.