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Errachidia, the starting point for History

Idea: Alhachmia Alamalilah

 

          Errachidia is one of the most exciting touristy regions in Morocco. It is situated in the South-East of the country that’s why it is hot and has a lot of oasis. There are also a lot of historical monuments. Like the architecture, the people of the province are unique and like to share with you the clothes they wear and the food they eat. These are a source of pleasure and admiration.

          The region is known by its people’s friendliness, hospitality, and dignity. They got these virtues from the noble teachings of Islam. They can share their food with strangers whatever small the quantity of the food is. Their motto is “The food for two can be eaten by ten”. The food is varied into different eatables like couscous, Tajin, the local pizza, dates, milk etc.

          Errachidia also speaks many different languages and dialects the main ones are Arabic and Tamazight. Behind these languages is hidden a mixture of old cultures (Berber, Arab, Andalous, Jewish, and African). They bear different musical instruments and tunes for example "Emalhoune", dances like "Ahidouse", celebrations like feasts, carnivals such as "Ashoura". More than this there are two of the most prominent festivals that attest this diversity in cultures namely the betrothal jamboree in "Imilchil" and the dates’ festival in "Erfoud".

          The region is also known by its typical style in clothes. For men there is the Jellaba which is a long dress with a hood, usually white), the Belgha (shoes) and the Bernouss or Azn’nar, that is, a dress that is put on the shoulders and people wrap themselves in it when it is cold. As for women there is the kaftan, the takchita, the cherbil (shoes) and the chachia which is a hat that covers the head. The liveries (clothes) for nuptials (marriage/ wedding) are quite special because they have to be clean if not new but very decent above all.

          While in Errachidia, you are on the land of the mausoleums and the historical leaders’ tombs that passed by. Isn’t Tafilalet the cradle of the Alaouite Dynasty?!

Reviewed and adapted by Mr. Abdessalami
Academic Year 2004 - 2005

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