History of Morocco: a journey through time

Moroccan history can be divided into three main periods:

1. Before Islam (prehistory – AD 682)
   First inhabitants: the Berbers, also called Imazighen (“free people”), nomads who settled across North Africa.
   Contact with Phoenicians and Carthaginians: trade in goods and new farming and metalworking techniques.
   Under the Roman Empire: Morocco was part of the province of Mauretania Tingitana, with important cities such as Volubilis and Tingis (Tangier).
2. From the arrival of Islam to the 19th century (682 – 1900)
   • Idrisids (789–1055): founded Fez and built a kingdom that became a cultural and religious centre.
   • Almoravids (1060–1144): unified the country, founded Marrakech and extended their power into Al-Andalus (Islamic Spain).
   • Almohads (1147–1269): strengthened unity and central power, and built monuments such as the Koutoubia in Marrakech and the Giralda in Seville.
   • Marinids (1269–1472): consolidated the monarchy, despite Portuguese attacks.
   • Wattasids (1472–1554) and Saadians (1554–1659): defended the country against European invasions and made Marrakech a cultural capital.
   • Alaouites (1659 to today): the current dynasty. Its best-known sultan, Moulay Ismail, built Meknes and strengthened the state.
3. 20th and 21st centuries: independence and modern Morocco
   • French and Spanish Protectorate (1912–1956): European powers controlled much of the country, but Moroccans kept their identity.
   • Independence in 1956: Mohammed V became king and Morocco regained its sovereignty.
   • Western Sahara: after Spain withdrew in 1975, Morocco incorporated the territory, which is still disputed with the Polisario Front.

Before Islam

Morocco’s first inhabitants, the Berbers, were nomads. Although the land was influenced by Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans, the Berbers kept their identity. Roman cities such as Volubilis still show remains of that era, including temples and mosaics.

The arrival of Islam

In 682 Arab armies reached Morocco and many Berbers embraced Islam. This transformed the country’s culture, architecture and politics. Key figures such as the Berber general Tariq ibn Ziyad played a major role in the conquest of the Iberian Peninsula — Gibraltar is named after him.

The great dynasties

• Idrisids: founded Fez, which became a religious and cultural centre.
• Almoravids: founded Marrakech and extended their power south and into Al-Andalus.
• Almohads: stood out for their architecture, culture and international trade.
• Marinids: consolidated the monarchy and defended the country from European invaders.
• Saadians: developed local industry and built the famous El Badi Palace in Marrakech.
• Alaouites: unified Morocco under powerful sultans and impressive capitals.

20th and 21st centuries: independence and modern Morocco

From 1912 to 1956 Morocco was under a French and Spanish protectorate, with Tangier as an international zone. In 1956 Morocco regained its independence and Mohammed V was proclaimed king. Since then the country has focused on modernisation and development while preserving its traditions.

The Western Sahara remains a sensitive issue: Morocco considers it part of the kingdom, while the Polisario Front calls for self-determination.

Morocco today

Knowing Morocco’s history helps you understand:

• Why Fez, Marrakech and Meknes are such special cities.
• The importance of its historic monuments, medinas and palaces.
• How Berber, Arab and European cultures blend in everyday life.

Morocco is a country where every street, square and mountain has a story to tell.