The unique cultural traditions of the Berbers

Q: What does the word Berber mean?

This term comes from the Greek word Barbaros, which refers to foreign people. That is, people who did not speak the Greek language. That said, it is essential to note that the Berber people prefer the name Amazigh which means free man.

Q: What is the language of the Berbers?

The Berber alphabet is Tifinagh, but in terms of dialects, it is quite different. Tarifit is used in North Africa; Tachelhit is spoken in the South-West of Essaouira and the Western Atlas, while Tamazight is mainly spoken in central Morocco since Tachelhit is the most important language of Moroccan Berbers people.

Africa

Thus, to meet the Amazigh, also called the people of the mountains and deserts, travelers can call on a guide who will certainly invite them to walk along the dayets of the Middle Atlas and the villages of Oukaimeden. Learning more about Berber culture\'s secrets, history, and customs will be a unique opportunity. This nation cannot be dissociated from North Africa since they are mainly found in this region. Thus, Tuaregs can also be considered Berbers. The same can be qualified for the Berber people in the north of Algeria: the Kabyles and Zenagas, the Moors in Mauritania, or the Chaouis of the Aurès. Nevertheless, this population is mainly concentrated in Morocco. That said, tourists will be able to meet the Riffian crescent at the foothills overlooking the Mediterranean to awaken the secrets of Tetouan and Chefchaouen. These blue cities full of charms will amaze some of them. On the Atlantic coast, the link between the Sahara and southern Africa is very narrow and impregnated with the Imazighen. There, tourists will have the chance to discover Berber villages in Essaouira and Agadir. They will be able to participate in the famous Festival Signs and Cultures, which takes place in June every year in Agadir. Here, Berber poetry and music are wonderfully transcribed. It will be the ideal time to discover the different musical instruments used by the Berbers during their ceremonies, such as the bendir, a drum on frame; the Imzad, a vièle monochord; the tamja, an oblique reed flute and the azamar, a double clarinet. Moreover, Yennayer is another anticipated celebration of this nation. It is simply New Year\'s Day of the Julian calendar. Depending on the region, it occurs between January 12 and 14 each year. In other areas, Yennayer is preceded by the imensi n yennayer, which is described as a dinner made on the eve of the Amazigh New Year. Travelers can enjoy and party with the Berbers if they choose to make their trip at this time. Then, the next destination could be around Taroudant to discover the culture in Taliouine, Tagouyamet, Ait Ighmour, Ait Tgga, or Idg High. Between tiered crops and saffron fields, the charm will operate with tourists. A meeting with the peoples of the High Atlas in the region of Oukaimeden and on the road to Tizi N\'Tichka is mandatory and daring tourists who do not hesitate to let themselves be carried away by the rhythm of a bivouac in the Great South will have the pleasure of living an unforgettable experience with the Tuareg nomads, also called, The blue men of the desert. Those who embark on an adventure to meet shepherds and nomadic tribes will be able to hike on the heights of the Atlas and discover the secrets of this culture that arouses so much interest. With any luck, they may have the opportunity to attend a wedding and see Berber women wearing their traditional dress. These atypical clothes consist of a black or blue Izar of 4 meters called the tamlheft covering the whole body. When Berber women get married, they must also wear a black or red cloth called tamasst, suspended under the hair. However, on the Algerian side, Berber women tend to wear colorful outfits. Each village has its specificity: the tajasnawe dress for the Ihesnawen region and the iwadiyen dress for the Ouadhia region, among others. Apart from that, the Berbers\' know-how in the craftsmanship field is highly recognized. In Chefchaouen and Taroudant, travelers will be able to discover beautiful pottery, while in Tiznit, they will be amazed by the jewels. On the side of Ouarzazate, they can appreciate the carpets, and in Marrakech and Tafraout, textiles are honored. The best Berber souks are in Taza, Azrou, and Taroudant. It is worth the detour to discover them. Furthermore, it is also worth noting that the architecture varies depending on the country. The constructions of the hills of Jebel Nefousa are perfect examples. These are underground houses carved vertically or horizontally in limestone. Some give the impression of being simple caves carved into the hillsides. Travelers will significantly appreciate this discovery. Then, regarding gastronomy, it is necessary to taste Berber specialties, including the famous couscous with 5 vegetables with honey and almonds. Those who want to taste an excellent tagine must only make a detour to Azrou. ◄

FAQ - The unique cultural traditions of the Berbers

►
What does the word Berber mean?
This term comes from the Greek word Barbaros, which refers to foreign people. That is, people who did not speak the Greek language. That said, it is essential to note that the Berber people prefer the name Amazigh which means free man. 
►
What is the language of the Berbers?
The Berber alphabet is Tifinagh, but in terms of dialects, it is quite different. Tarifit is used in North Africa; Tachelhit is spoken in the South-West of Essaouira and the Western Atlas, while Tamazight is mainly spoken in central Morocco since Tachelhit is the most important language of Moroccan Berbers people.