Moroccan architecture

Amazigh influence in Moroccan architecture

The architecture of Morocco was affected by the Berber architecture, as the Berbers settled in Morocco in the past, and their architectural works had the first influence in Moroccan architecture, and one of the most important aspects of the Berber architecture is the building with a wonderful solid appearance, and their use of mud bricks as a basic material in the construction of buildings

Islamic influence on Moroccan architecture

The influence of Islamic architecture is the most obvious in Moroccan architecture, as Islamic architecture reached the Maghreb by the seventh century AD, and one of the most important manifestations of Islamic influence in buildings in Morocco is the Islamic motifs that appear in the form of complex geometric patterns such as arabesque decorative lines, and are free of images. These decorations, besides giving a beautiful appearance, are very meticulously designed, and were carved mainly in stone, plaster, and wood.

Wide courtyards in palaces and houses are among the most important elements in Islamic architecture, and these courtyards are adorned with arched entrances. Islamic architecture is also reflected in woodwork, domed mosques, minarets, high towers, high walls that surround cities, and running water fountains that were It constitutes an important part of Moroccan culture, in addition to its importance in the ritual ablution before prayer in the Islamic religion.

Andalusian influence in Moroccan architecture

The influence of Andalusian architecture was reflected in Moroccan buildings when the southern part of Spain was part of the Berber Kingdom of Morocco during the eleventh century AD, where arches began to appear in buildings and were later called Moroccan arches, and they took two main forms: Horseshoe and circular tapered design, as the ceilings became covered with tiles, and the use of hand-glazed tiles began as an element in the Andalusian architectural decoration, and in that period Andalusian gardens spread throughout Morocco

French influence in Moroccan architecture

France was able to control Moroccan architecture by imposing some restrictions and laws on construction during its control over Morocco, which changed some of the features of Moroccan architecture, as buildings became only built with flat roofs, and no more than 4 floors high, and it was required that the balconies of buildings be designed So that it does not overlook the neighboring housing, and the construction percentage of the land area has been determined so that it does not exceed 80% of the total area, so that the remaining area of the land is allocated to gardens and outdoor squares.

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