Colours of Morocco

With vibrant landscapes, diverse communities and a rich history, Morocco is a tapestry of colours. From the fish markets of Tangier in the north to the arid Sahara Desert in the south, the bustling markets of Marrakech to the tranquil blue alleys of Chefchaouan, colours hold deep cultural significance within Moroccan culture.

Here we delve into the kaleidoscope of colours to be found within Moroccan cities, religious symbolism, markets and awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

COLOURS OF THE CITIES

Every town and city in Morocco has it’s own signature colour

CHEFCHAOUN: The Blue City
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouan is famous for its mesmerizing blue washed buildings. In Moroccan culture blue symbolises spirituality, peace and tranquillity. It is also believed to repel mosquitos and keep homes cool during hot summers.

MARRAKECH: The Red City
Marrakech’s buildings are adorned with terracotta hues, symbolising the city’s rich history and the red sandstone walls that enclose the medina.

FEZ: The Yellow City
The ancient city of Fez boasts a maze-like medina adorned with shades of yellow and gold. Yellow represents prosperity, wealth and happiness, reflecting the city’s  status as the centre of commerce throughout history – the old money.

CASABLANCA: The White City
Coming from the Portuguese “Casa Branca” meaning “White House”, the Portuguese used what was a ruined harbour to build a military fortress. The village that grew around the fortress was called “Casa Branca”.

RABAT: The Blue & White City
Like many cities along the Atlantic coastline, blue and white is a favoured colour. However, in Rabat’s Medina, every single wall is painted a perfect blue and white. There are a number of beliefs as to why this is, but it is widely believed to embrace the Islamic concept of happiness and optimism being represented by the colour blue.

RELIGIOUS COLOURS

Islam does not use images of people or animals in its decoration. The use of colours, symbols and script are therefore key. Multicoloured Zellij Mosaics are found throughout religious buildings, historically using six colours: white, black, green, blue, red and ochre. Each with their own meaning from Islam.

GREEN: In Islam, green is considered the colour of paradise, representing fertility, growth and prosperity. It is often associated with the Prophet Muhammad and is widely used in religious decorations. In every town or city there will be buildings proudly covered with green ceramic tiles and green mosaics. Traditionally, buildings of note such as mosques, mausoleums of important people and the King’s Palaces have green rooves.

WHITE: Symbolising purity, cleanliness and spirituality, white is commonly used inside Mosques and within religious ceremonies. It reflects the importance of spiritual purity.

YELLOW: Symbolising the wilting of objects as they near their end

MARKET COLOURS

Artisan trade is big business throughout Morocco and can be found within the markets and boutiques of each town and city.

MULTICOLOURED: Souks and tanneries are filled with colour, scents and sounds. Vibrant textiles, spices, ceramics, sandals and crafts adorn narrow alleys and markets of every colour.  There is strong potential for sensory overload!

COLOURS IN NATURE

From the golden sands of the Sahara to lush greenery of the Atlas Mountains, and the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco’s natural palette is diverse and captivating.

RED: Mineral rich, fertile red soils used for farming and building.

GREEN: The deep green of the Date Palm Tree Crown is a vibrant colour of life popping out from the dry, red Moroccan soils.

GOLD: The golden hues of the Sahara Desert inspire awe and wonder, symbolising resilience and strength.

BLUE: The endless blue Moroccan skies are said to help retain peace and tranquillity below.

Images Credit: Kasbah Bab Ourika