 Guarding the entrance to the Moroccan pavilion is a reproduction
of the Koutoubia Minaret of Marrakesh, a prayer tower of
the 12th century mosque. The intricately carved tower reflects
the pride in the craftsmanship that the native artisans
took when assisting in the construction of the Moroccan
pavilion. More native craftsmen were used in building this
pavilion than in any other in all of the World Showcase.
This is evident in the supreme quality of the geometric
patterns and mosaic art found throughout Morocco.
 The warm terra cotta tiles and carved plaster buildings
topped with green roofs amidst the winding alleys and stuccoed
archways add to the charm of the "jewel of North Africa".
More of the exquisite craftsmanship is found in the gate
to the Medina (the old city) in a replica of the Bab Boujouloud
gate. In the Medina, you will find the bustling marketplace
or bazaar. The Ville Nouvelle (new city) has the Royal
Gallery and the Moroccan National Tourist Office where
you can see a three-screen slide show of the lifestyles
and landscape of Morocco.
The flower filled courtyard surrounded by citrus and olive
trees, date palms and banana plants, includes a fountain
inspired by the Nejjarine fountain Fez. In this area, you
can hear Moroccan musicians, watch the exotic belly dancers
perform or marvel at the incredible acrobatics of the Houzali
Troupe. Check the park guide map for performance times.
In the Gallery of Arts and History, you can enjoy the ever-changing
exhibits of Moroccan arts, artifacts and costumes. Early
architecture is showcased in the Fez House.
 A walking tour of Morocco, "The Treasures of Morocco" is offered daily. The "Restaurant Marrakesh (menu)" offers
visitors a chance to sample the exotic cuisine of Morocco
whilst enjoying Morocco entertaining. Bastilla appetizers
(meat or seafood baked in a thin pastry with vegetables
or almonds), traditional coucous, a number of lamb dishes,
chicken brochettes and shisk kabobs are some of the culinary
delights offered here. Restaurant Marrakesh Review
The "Moorish Café (menu) and Pastry
Shop" serves such delicacies as light crepes and Moorish
pastries in addition to hot mint tea and specialty coffees.
Moroccan fine jewelry, traditional clothing and shoes, Camel bone mirrors, and handmade daggers are found in the "Tangier Traders". The "Brass Bazaar" features mosaic fountains, Thuya wood, and brass or silver decorative plates and mirrors. This shop also has an Outdoor Bazaar where ceramic tiles, native instruments, and handmade baskets can be found. The "Medina Arts" offers Moroccan crafts such as the traditional ceramic Tajne and beautifully designed ceramic plates. Find hand knotted carpets and rugs in "Casablanca Carpets" as well as glass lanterns and the Marrakesh wall sconces. Directly across from the main pavilion there is a shop called Souk-Al-Magreb. They offer some of the same items found in the other stores of Morocco. The couscous pot can be found here along with Sadaf brand couscous. Fez hats, wind chimes, Henna Lamps, rose water, and an instructional DVD for belly dancing are also available. All areas of Morocco are wheelchair accessible.
FUN FACTS:
Say “hello” in Morocco by saying “salam alekoum (sah-LAM
wah-LAY-koom).
Morocco is the only country in the World Showcase in which
the government was actually involved in the design and construction
of the pavilion.
HIDDEN MICKEYS:
On the outside wall of the gift shop there are three baskets
in the shape of a Mickey. |
