Northern Morocco is where Europe meets
Africa or, more precisely, where Andalucian culture meets Berber
traditions. Between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean coast, the
Hispanic-influenced cities contrast starkly with the wild landscapes of
the Rif Mountains. In the towns, stylish urbanites mix in markets and
squares with the more traditional Rifians who come to sell their
produce.
Tangier is a place all its own, with memories of intrigue and dreams.
Its stories and scandals involving bad boys and femme fatales.
lawlessness and beauty, inspired many writers. filmmakers and artists.
Elegant Tetouan and attractive Chefchaouen have preserved their
Andalucian heritage, as have the seaside
towns of Asilah and Earache. And Spain still holds five enclaves along
the Rif coast: Ceuta.
Melilla and three small, uninhabited islets.
The Rif Mountains form a barrier between the Mediterranean world and
central Moroccan culture. The
ruined settlements of many foreign powers, from Phoenicians and Romans
to Arabs and Spaniards, are scattered along the coast-line - but the Rif
only ever belonged to the Berbers. Very few Moroccan sultans succeeded
in conquering the region and even today it remains troublesome. The
eastern mountains are remarkably beautiful, but something of a no-go
area because of the flourishing cannabis trade. However, King Mohammed
VI's plans for the area have resulted in the development of tourist
resorts.
Carved plaster with floral motives, calligraphy and zellij in
spectacular geometric compositions all vie to capture the attention
