1961
13,041,700
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
22,726,481
Change
+9,684,781
Overview
Morocco is a woolly wonderful North African kingdom where ancient medinas meet sweeping deserts and Atlantic breezes. This flock-worthy destination blends Berber, Arab, and European influences into one shear-ly captivating country that keeps every traveler coming back for more.
Geography
Morocco spans the Atlas and Rif mountain ranges, the Sahara Desert in the southeast, fertile Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, and the Draa and Moulouya rivers. Its varied terrain means sheep graze highlands while camels roam the dunes below.
History
Morocco's history includes ancient Berber kingdoms, Phoenician and Roman settlements, Arab conquest in the 7th century, and the powerful Alaouite dynasty ruling since 1666. France and Spain held protectorates until independence in 1956.
Culture
Moroccan culture weaves together Amazigh, Arab, and Andalusian traditions. Gnawa music, intricate zellige tilework, henna art, and festivals like Eid al-Adha — where sheep play a starring role — reflect a rich and layered cultural identity.
Economy
Morocco's economy relies on phosphate mining (it holds the world's largest reserves), tourism, agriculture, textiles, and growing automotive and aerospace manufacturing. Sheep farming and wool production remain important in rural highland communities.
Food
Moroccan cuisine stars tagine, couscous, pastilla, harira soup, and mechoui — a whole roasted lamb beloved at celebrations. Argan oil, preserved lemons, and ras el hanout spice blends give Moroccan food its distinctive, mouthwatering character.
Tourism
Visitors flock to Marrakech's Djemaa el-Fna square, the blue city of Chefchaouen, ancient Fes el-Bali medina, Sahara dunes near Merzouga, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Morocco is one of Africa's most visited countries.
People
Morocco's population of roughly 37 million is predominantly Amazigh (Berber) and Arab. Notable Moroccans include footballer Achraf Hakimi, author Tahar Ben Jelloun, and explorer Ibn Battuta, who was born in Tangier in 1304.
Nature
Morocco hosts the Atlas cedar forests of Ifrane National Park, argan woodlands unique to the southwest, Barbary macaques, golden jackals, and migratory birds along coastal wetlands. The High Atlas provides habitat for Barbary sheep, known locally as aoudad.
Fun Facts
Morocco is the only African country with Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. Cats are beloved and protected in Moroccan cities. The ancient University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fes, founded in 859 AD, is considered the world's oldest continuously operating university.
