Storytelling in Morocco is an ancient art and tradition, deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, and continues to thrive in the heart of the city, captivating both locals and tourists alike, the stories are incredible, educational, and funny, it is an integral part of Moroccan culture. As Marrakech has evolved into a major tourist destination, the tradition of storytelling has been meticulously curated to bridge the gap between the rich Moroccan heritage and the diverse array of international visitors seeking to experience it.
The Heart of Moroccan Storytelling: Djemaa el-Fna
At the epicenter of storytelling in Marrakech is the big Square Djemaa el-Fna, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site. As the sun sets, this iconic square transforms into a living stage where storytellers, or ‘Hlayqya’, gather crowds around them, eager to dive into a world of myths, legends, and folktales. These stories often feature a blend of humor, wisdom, and moral lessons, reflecting the values and traditions of Moroccan society.
Adapting Story Telling to a Global Audience :
In recent years, storytellers have adapted their craft to cater to the diverse audience that Marrakech attracts. Languages play a crucial role in this adaptation. While traditional storytelling was predominantly in Darija (Moroccan Arabic) or Tamazight (Berber languages), many storytellers now incorporate French, English, and Spanish into their performances. This multilingual approach ensures that the magic of Moroccan tales reaches the hearts of visitors from all corners of the globe.
Curating Experiences of Story Telling for Tourists
We recognize the universal appeal of storytelling and we started to curate intimate storytelling sessions, specifically designed for our clients and curious travelers. we successfully organized storytelling sessions in traditional Riads in the historic medina where visitors travel in time in a cozy atmosphere for guests to immerse themselves in the narrative tradition of Morocco.