meryamjaffar

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Welcome! This is my midterm Project for my History 102 class. My Travel Log is focused on early 20th-century Morocco during the French protectorate era. Through this journey, I will explore the cultural, historical, and geographical landscapes of Morocco during a time of immense transformation, colonial rule, and national resilience.

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The Royal Palace in Fez:

Today marks the start of our journey through Morocco’s rich history for 5 days. Our first stop takes us to the magnificent Royal Palace in Fez, a place of power, beauty, and resilience. As we step through the gates, the air is filled with the sweet scent of jasmine and orange blossoms from the lush gardens. The intricate brass and copper work on the palace’s grand doors gleams in the soft light of the afternoon sun. This is no ordinary royal residence—it's a symbol of Morocco’s enduring legacy.As we wander through the palace grounds, we are reminded of the French protectorate era, when colonial forces attempted to reshape Morocco’s royal structures. But the palace stands firm, a testament to Moroccan culture and defiance. Though the French transformed parts of Fez, the Royal Palace remained a space where Morocco’s identity was preserved. The palace, with its serene gardens and grand courtyards, became a hidden stronghold for resistance leaders and a place where plans for independence were quietly forged.We continue exploring the palace, marveling at the intricate tilework and the architectural blend of Arab, Andalusian, and Berber styles. As we walk deeper into the compound, we hear the soft echoes of history—of political meetings, secret alliances, and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for Morocco’s freedom. The Royal Palace in Fez, still active today, stands as both a monument to the past and a beacon for the future.

 For detail:The Royal Palace in Fez, located in Morocco's ancient imperial city, is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. It was originally built in the 13th century during the reign of the Merinid dynasty, with later renovations under the Alaouite dynasty. The palace is known for its intricate craftsmanship, with beautiful tilework, grand brass doors, and lush gardens. It covers over 80,000 square meters and serves as the king’s official residence. Although not open to the public, the Royal Palace remains a symbol of Morocco’s royal heritage and political power, with its history deeply intertwined with the country’s struggle for independence

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Kasbah of the Udayas:

On the second day of our journey through Morocco, we found ourselves at the Kasbah of the Udayas, one of Rabat’s most iconic landmarks. This historic fortress, nestled at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the modern city of Rabat. Built in the 12th century by the Almohads, the Kasbah was originally a military stronghold and home to the Udaya Berber tribe. Over the centuries, it became an important symbol of Moroccan resilience and heritage.As we wandered through the narrow, winding streets, the blue-and-whitewashed walls of the Kasbah stood in sharp contrast to the modern world just outside its gates. The labyrinthine alleys are lined with charming white houses with blue shutters, creating a picturesque atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era. The peaceful ambiance of the Kasbah is in stark contrast to its role in history, particularly during the colonial era.As we explored the Kasbah's gardens, we were surrounded by lush greenery, fragrant orange blossoms, and intricate tilework that reflects Morocco's rich cultural heritage. The gardens, with their serene ponds and shaded pathways, were a favorite retreat for both locals and visitors alike. 

More detail:During the French protectorate, the Kasbah served as a stronghold for resistance movements. It was here that many nationalists found refuge, using the strategic location to defend against the colonial powers. Despite the French efforts to modernize Rabat, the Kasbah remained largely untouched, preserving the soul of Moroccan resistance. The high walls and narrow passageways, designed for defense, still stand as silent witnesses to the struggles that defined Morocco’s fight for independence.

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The Rif War and the Battle of Annual:

On our third day, we traveled to the rugged hills of the Rif Mountains, where one of the most pivotal moments in Morocco’s history took place—the Battle of Annual in 1921. The battle was a defining moment in the Rif War, a fierce resistance movement led by the Berber leader Abdelkrim El Khattabi against Spanish colonial forces. As we stood on the land where thousands of lives were lost, the serenity of the mountains contrasted sharply with the violent history that unfolded here. As we explored the battlefield, we could almost feel the weight of the past. The terrain is still rugged and unforgiving, a reflection of the fierce fighting that took place here. The landscape, dotted with small villages and terraced fields, remains largely unchanged, offering a powerful reminder of the battle’s significance. We stood on a hill overlooking the valley where the Spanish forces were ambushed, surrounded by the same mountains that gave the Rifian fighters their advantage.Today, the Rif War and the Battle of Annual are remembered not only for the bravery of the Rifian fighters but also for the lasting impact they had on Morocco’s path to independence. As we walked through the quiet, peaceful landscape, it was hard to forget the bloodshed that occurred here.

More detail:The Rif War, which began in 1920, was sparked by the Spanish attempts to expand their control over northern Morocco. Abdelkrim El Khattabi, a brilliant military strategist, led the Rifian forces in guerrilla warfare, using the mountainous terrain to their advantage. The Battle of Annual, fought on July 22, 1921, became one of the most significant battles in Moroccan resistance. The Spanish, overconfident and poorly prepared, were decisively defeated, with over 13,000 Spanish soldiers killed and hundreds more captured. This defeat sent shockwaves through both Spain and Europe, showcasing the power of Moroccan resistance

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The Souks of Marrakech:

On our fourth day, we ventured into the bustling heart of Marrakech—the famous souks. As we stepped into the vibrant maze of narrow streets and alleyways, the atmosphere was alive with energy. The souks, a labyrinth of traditional markets, offer a sensory overload, with the scents of spices, leather, and fresh mint mingling in the warm air. The colorful textiles, intricate silver jewelry, and hand-painted ceramics immediately caught our eyes, reflecting the rich craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. Navigating through the maze-like streets, we were immersed in the sounds of bargaining, with vendors calling out to passersby in a melody of Moroccan Arabic, French, and sometimes even Spanish. The souks of Marrakech are not just marketplaces—they are cultural hubs where history and tradition blend with the rhythms of daily life. It is here, in these vibrant streets, that Moroccan culture truly comes alive. Every item for sale tells a story, whether it's the vibrant carpets woven by Berber women, the hand-carved wooden figurines, or the rich spices that have been traded for centuries.As we explored the Souk Semmarine, one of the largest markets in Marrakech, we stumbled upon a group of artisans weaving traditional carpets by hand. The intricate designs, often symbolic of Berber heritage, were a testament to the deep cultural roots that still thrive in Morocco today. Further along, we visited the souk dedicated to spices, where the air was thick with the scent of saffron, cumin, and paprika, a reminder of the region’s history as a crossroads for traders from across the world.

More detail: During the French protectorate, the souks were a site of both commerce and resistance. While colonial authorities sought to control the economy, the souks remained an essential part of Moroccan society, often serving as a meeting place for nationalists and a space where Moroccan identity could be maintained. Even under colonial rule, the souks were a place of quiet defiance, where the spirit of resistance could be seen in the products and traditions that remained untouched by foreign influenc

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Lycée Moulay Youssef:

On our fifth and final day, we visited Lycée Moulay Youssef in Rabat, a school that stands as both a product and symbol of Morocco's colonial past. Established in the early 20th century during the French protectorate, this prestigious institution was designed to educate the future leaders of Morocco under French supervision. As we stepped onto the grounds of Lycée Moulay Youssef, we were struck by the architectural grandeur of the building—an imposing mix of French colonial and Moroccan design, with stately arches and wide courtyards.The school was originally intended to train a new class of Moroccan elites who would serve as intermediaries between the colonial government and the local population. The curriculum focused on French language, culture, and Western-style education, while Moroccan traditions and history were largely excluded. This policy of "assimilation" was meant to produce a generation of Moroccans who would be loyal to French rule, but it also sparked a sense of resistance among many. Students here were often caught between two worlds: the French colonial system that sought to shape their future, and the growing nationalist movement that sought to reclaim their cultural identity.As we walked through the halls of the lycée, we reflected on the role education played in Morocco's fight for independence. The school, while a symbol of colonial control, also became a place where ideas of resistance were born. Many prominent figures in the independence movement, including future political leaders, were educated here. These leaders would later challenge the colonial system, using the very education that had been imposed on them to fuel their fight for sovereignty.

More detail:

Lycée Moulay Youssef in Rabat was founded in 1927 by the French colonial administration as part of their effort to provide education to the Moroccan elite. It was designed to teach French language, culture, and Western-style education, serving as a symbol of French influence. Many of Morocco’s future leaders, including those involved in the country’s independence movement, were educated at this institution. Despite its colonial origins, the school played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Morocco during the 20th century.

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Works Cited

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Blerdijan. (2025, February 24). Kasbah of Udayas | Adventure in Rabat. Story Rabat. https://www.story-rabat.com/kasbah-of-udayas/

Debbie. (2023, April 21). Rabat - Debbie's Journal. Debbie’s Journal. https://www.debbiesjournal.com/rabat/

Helionbooks. (2024, July 5). The Rif War, a bloody and forgotten conflict full of world firsts. The Helion & Co. Military Book Blog. 

Guac Magazine Editors. (2023, October 26). Marrakech Souks–A Shopper’s Paradise - Guac Magazine - medium. Medium. https://medium.com/guac-magazine/marrakech-souks-a-shoppers-paradise-a67065ac1a8d

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Stapylton-Smith, L. (2025, February 18). All you need to know about Morocco’s Souks | unforgettable travel company. Unforgettable Travel Company. https://unforgettabletravel.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-moroccos-souks/

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The Rif War: A forgotten war? (2023, June 1). International Review of the Red Cross. https://international-review.icrc.org/articles/the-rif-war-a-forgotten-war-923

Trip. (2024, October 5). Royal Palace of Fez: Morocco’s majestic Dar El-Makhzen. Morocco Trip Time. https://www.moroccotriptime.com/royal-palace-of-fez/