These are the hues that define Morocco’s cities and their captivating stories.
If you were to close your eyes and pick a colour at random, there’s a good chance Morocco has a city that wears it proudly. This North African country is a kaleidoscope of hues, with cities painted in shades that tell stories of history, culture, and geography. From the warm terracotta tones of Marrakech to the striking blues of Chefchaouen, each hue in Morocco carries meaning, rooted in the materials of the land, the beliefs of its people and the forces of nature...
Marrakech - The Red City
Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most iconic cities, is often referred to as the "Red City." This nickname comes from its architecture, which glows in shades of terracotta and deep ochre. Built in the 11th century using red sandstone from the surrounding areas, the city’s walls and buildings have retained their earthy tones for centuries. The colour also evokes the warmth of the desert sun and the vitality of life in a place that has thrived at the crossroads of trade routes.
Beyond its colour, Marrakech is a sensory feast. Located in southwestern Morocco near the Atlas Mountains, it’s home to the Koutoubia Mosque, whose towering minaret mirrors the city’s reddish palette. The bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square and labyrinthine souks further cement Marrakech as a place where the vibrancy of its color is matched by the energy of its people.
Chefchaouen - The Blue City
High up with the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, one finds Chefchaouen, a city that seems to have been dipped in sky and sea. Known as the "Blue City," its walls, doors and staircases are painted in a palette of blues that range from pastel to cobalt. This tradition is said to have been introduced by Jewish refugees in the 1930s, who associated the colour with spirituality and the divine.
Walking through Chefchaouen feels like stepping into a dream. The blue walls do more than serve an aesthetic purpose - they are also believed to repel mosquitoes and cool the air. Landmarks like the Kasbah Museum and Ras El Maa waterfall offer a quiet counterpoint to the city’s vivid hues, making it a haven for travellers seeking beauty and tranquility.
Fez – The Yellow City
Fez, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital, is often associated with the colour yellow. The city’s architecture and its famed tanneries are awash in golden hues, a reflection of prosperity and warmth. Historically, yellow has been a symbol of wealth in Moroccan culture, and Fez, with its long-standing reputation as a centre of learning and trade, wears it well.
Found in northern Morocco, Fez is home to Al Quaraouiyine University, one of the oldest in the world. Its labyrinthine medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where craftsmen still practice centuries-old techniques. The yellow tones in Fez’s traditional leatherwork and ceramics tie the city to its heritage, making it a place where history and colour converge.
Tangier – The White City
Tangier, perched at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, is known as the "White City." Its gleaming white-washed buildings stand out against the blue of the sea, creating a striking contrast that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. The colour white here symbolises clarity and light, fitting for a city that has served as a gateway between continents.
Tangier’s strategic location in northwestern Morocco has made it a melting pot of cultures. The city is home to the Kasbah Museum, the American Legation Museum, and the mythic Caves of Hercules. Its whitewashed walls not only reflect sunlight but also embody the openness and adaptability of a city that has welcomed diverse influences throughout its history.
