Embarking on a profound exploration of Morocco, we unravel the intricate tapestry of cities founded and nurtured by the Amazigh people, the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa. Among these, Marrakech stands as a jewel, founded by the Almoravid dynasty in the 11th century, reflecting the indomitable spirit and cultural prowess of the Amazigh. Fes, one of the oldest and most revered cities, bears the fingerprints of the Amazigh people on its historic walls and timeless architecture, a testament to their enduring influence. In the southern realms, the city of Tiznit emerges, established as a military post by the Amazigh ruler Moulay Ali ben Moussa in the 19th century, embodying the resilience and strategic vision of the Amazigh. Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” echoes with Amazigh trade routes and cultural influences, narrating a tale of exploration and connectivity. Taroudant, often dubbed “Little Marrakech,” boasts a deep connection to Amazigh history, its fortified walls and vibrant markets echoing the artistry and traditions of the Amazigh people. Agadir, while shaped by diverse cultures, carries the historical weight of being an important trading post for the Amazigh. In the Anti-Atlas mountains, the town of Tafraoute reveals itself as a stronghold of Amazigh identity, with traditional villages and unique landscapes reflecting the harmonious coexistence of the Amazigh people and their environment. Ifrane, established during the French colonial period, showcases a blend of tradition and modernity, with a significant Amazigh population contributing to its cultural richness. These cities stand as living monuments to the Amazigh legacy, where every alley, every market, and every architectural marvel tells a story of endurance, innovation, and cultural continuity.
Here are some Moroccan cities founded by the amazigh in Morocco :
- Marrakech:
- One of Morocco’s most iconic cities, Marrakech has a rich history that includes Berber, Arab, and later, French influences. The city was founded by the Almoravid Berber dynasty in the 11th century.
- Fes:
- Fes is one of the oldest and most well-preserved medieval cities in the world. It has Berber roots, and its history is intertwined with various Berber dynasties.
- Tiznit:
- Tiznit, located in the southern part of Morocco, is known for its Berber heritage. The city was originally established as a military post by the Berber ruler Moulay Ali ben Moussa in the 19th century.
- Ouarzazate:
- Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” has Berber origins. It served as a key trading post for centuries.
- Taroudant:
- Taroudant, also known as “Little Marrakech,” is an ancient town with Berber roots. It has well-preserved city walls and traditional architecture.
- Agadir:
- Although Agadir has been heavily influenced by various cultures, including Arab and Portuguese, it has Berber origins. The city was historically an important trading post.
- Tafraoute:
- Tafraoute is a town in the Anti-Atlas mountains with a strong Berber identity. The region is known for its unique landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
- Ifrane:
- Ifrane, situated in the Middle Atlas region, was established during the French colonial period. However, the area has a Berber population, and its architecture incorporates Berber elements.
other Old cities founded by the Amazigh with its original names:
Anfa (Casablanca): The founding of Anfa dates back to the Neolithic era by the Berbers and served as a stopping point for the Phoenicians on their way to Essaouira.
Azemmour: (The word “Azemmour” means in Amazigh: dry olives) The city was founded by the Berbers, and it later became an important Roman settlement.
Essouira (Essaouira): A city founded by the Berbers under the name Mogador, Megador, or Amikdol. The Phoenicians visited it in 900 BC, but its real development began in the first century BC during the reign of the Berber king Yuba II.
Ish: A city located near Figig. It is a city founded by the Berbers.
Lixus (Larache): Founded by the Berbers in 1146 BC.
Mazagan : It was founded by the Berbers under the name “Mazagan” and was visited by the Punics in 650 BC. It was a Roman stopping point on their way to Essaouira.
Melilia (Melilla) : a Moroccan city occupied by Spain): Founded by the Berbers and occupied by Phoenicians.
Chellah (Salé): Founded by the Berbers and Phoenicians under the name Cala or Salé.
Tamouda: A very ancient Berber city that fell under Roman occupation in 39 AD.
Tetaouine (Tetouan): is a city founded by the Berbers, and the name means eyes.
echaouen : Chefchaouen is a city founded by the Berbers in the name of echaouen, which means centuries.
Tangiers (Tangier): Founded by the Berbers under the name Tinji.
Tizas (Taza): Founded by the Berbers, the city included a large military garrison during the Roman rule.
Zilis (Asilah): Founded by the Berbers and colonised in a time by Phoenicians.
Amor n Akush (Marrakesh): which means the land of God.
Afizaz or Fazzaz (Fez).
Zatat (Settat) : is a city founded by the Berbers, and the name means tax.
Tit n Asardun (Ain Asrdun) : is a city founded by the Berbers, which means the horse’s eye or the horse’s spring.
Alili (Vulubilis) :is a city founded by the Berbers and occupied by the Romans who built their building on the ruins of the ancient city. Lily means the flower of the oleander tree.
Meknesa (Meknes) : is a city founded by the Berbers. The name Meknes is due to a Berber tribe that called itself Meknesa.
WarZazate (Ouarzazate) : was a small town founded by the Berbers. (The name is an Amazigh phrase composed of two words: “ouar,” which means without, and “Zazat,” which means noise. It means without noise.
While the influence of the Berber people is evident in the history and culture of these cities, it’s important to acknowledge the dynamic nature of cultural interactions over time. The development of these cities often involved contributions from various ethnic and cultural groups.
