Amazigh (Berber) Culture in Morocco
Long before the Arabs arrived, North Africa was home to the Amazigh - "free people," widely known as Berbers. Their language, music, crafts and identity remain at the heart of Morocco. Here's an introduction.
Who Are the Amazigh?
The indigenous people of North Africa, the Amazigh make up a large share of Morocco's population, concentrated in the Atlas mountains, the Rif and the Souss. Learn more about origins in the Moroccan people.
Language & Script
Tamazight became an official language of Morocco in 2011, written in the ancient Tifinagh alphabet (you'll see it on road signs and buildings). Three main variants exist: Tarifit (north), Tamazight (Middle Atlas) and Tashelhit (south).
Music, Crafts & Symbols
- Carpets: each Berber carpet is coded with symbols of protection and fertility.
- Music & dance: ahwash and ahidous collective dances, the rwais poets of the Souss (Moroccan music).
- Tattoos & jewelry: traditional facial tattoos on older women, chunky silver fibulas and amber.
- Names: beautiful Amazigh first names like Anir, Tilila and Massin.
Yennayer and Where to Experience It
Yennayer, the Amazigh New Year (January 14), is now a national holiday (holidays guide). To experience Amazigh culture: stay in an Atlas Berber village, visit the Berber Museum in Marrakesh, catch the Timitar festival in Agadir, or shop directly with weavers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Berbers of Morocco?
The Amazigh ("free people") are the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa, making up a large part of Morocco's population, especially in the Atlas, Rif and Souss regions.
Is Berber a language?
Yes - Tamazight, official in Morocco since 2011 and written in the Tifinagh alphabet, with three main regional variants: Tarifit, Tamazight and Tashelhit.
Where can you experience Amazigh culture in Morocco?
In Atlas Berber villages, the Berber Museum in Marrakesh, the Timitar festival in Agadir, and by buying carpets and crafts directly from weavers.
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