5+ things you didn’t know about Morocco

Earlier this year, we added Morocco to our ever-growing list of countries where you can send money. But how much do you really know about Morocco?

Well, let’s start with the basics when it comes to transfers. With our support, customers can now collect cash from 6000+ CashPlush locations. They can also send MAD to Moroccan bank cards and their first two transfers to Morocco are completely free!

But enough about us and our transfers. Let’s talk about Morocco itself. After all, that’s why your’re here, right? Here are 5 fun facts about this extraordinary African country.

Morocco is home to a Blue City

One of Morocco’s most popular spots is Chefchaouen, a beautiful city that’s also known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco. Why? Because the entire medina and a large portion of the village is painted blue. As you can imagine, this makes for some pretty spectacular photo opportunities!

Meanwhile, Marrakech has garnered the nickname of the ‘red city’ due to the clay and red sandstone used to construct much of the city’s architecture.

Many languages are spoken in Morocco

Morocco’s official language is Arabic, which is what most Moroccans tend to speak. But as Morocco was once a colony of France, French is also a common language. It’s estimated that roughly a third of the population knows or speaks French in Morocco.

Tolerant of different faiths and lifestyles, the country is also one of the most diverse in the world. Its two main groups are Berbers and Arabs but because of its past rule from the French, Spanish, Romans and Jewish exiles, the country is a melting pot of different people, languages, art, food, architecture and clothing. 

The country is ‘Africa’s little Hollywood’

Over the years, Morocco has been used to film many major motion pictures. This is down to many factors including the country’s low filming costs and established relationships with American studios. But it’s also due to the fact that a large part of the country is desert, making it a hit with many American filmmakers.

Famous movies that have been filmed (or at least partially filmed) there include Lawrence of Arabia, The Man Who Knew Too Much, The Mummy, Alexander, Babel, Inception and Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation.

You can go skiing in Morocco

Skiing probably isn’t something you’d usually associate with Morocco with it being home to vast deserts and hot temperatures. But in its High Atlas Mountain region is Africa’s highest ski resort. Situated 49 miles south of Marrakech, Oukaïmeden attracts both locals and tourists with its six miles of skiing terrain and seven lifts.

Generally, the ski season runs from December through to March with January and February providing ideal conditions. With its close proximity to Marrakech, many people visit for the day and head back to Marrakech in time for dinner. 

The country has many main exports

What do dates, olives and sardines have in common? Well, they’re all exports from Morocco. Another popular export is argan oil. Deriving from argan nuts, this oil was traditionally used in food and medicine but now it’s the main ingredient of many luxury hair and cosmetic products.

Speaking of trading, Morocco was also the first country to recognise the United States of America as an independent nation when it declared its independence. In 1777, within the first year of the USA declaring independence, it opened its port to trading.

A few more quick facts? Oh, go on then…

Looking for a few more quick-hit facts about Morocco? Here goes. Based on the African continent, the country has a population of 37 million and measures around 172,000 square miles. Its capital city is Rabat and its currency is the Moroccan Dirham. It’s also home to amazing souks, heavenly beaches and a slice of the Sahara Desert. Morocco, you’ve officially stolen our hearts!

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Do you have some fun facts of your own about Morocco? Share them with us on Instagram. We’ll reshare our favourites! Don’t forget to tag us at @transfergo.

And if you want to send money to Morocco, sign up now for easy online money transfers with TransferGo.