Morocco, a Muslim country located in western North Africa, with coastlines on the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, has been recognized among countries having the richest culture and heritage in the world.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the Kingdom has a unique mix of Arab, Berber, African and European cultural influences. Unlike many of its neighbors, Morocco remained independent for much of its history. Once part of the Roman Empire, the country was ruled by a series of kingdoms after the Arab conquest of the late seventh century.
Morocco thwarted attempts at Turkish and European control until the country became a French protectorate from 1912 to 1956, when it gained independence.
The North African Kingdom is known for its cuisine, which is admired and imitated throughout the world, says the American publication, noting that Moroccan cooks make heavy use of spices and local ingredients, such as saffron, mint and olives.
Couscous is Morocco’s premier dish. Harira, a thick lamb soup served with dates, is a national specialty served during Ramadan. Bread is a big part of every meal and is often washed down with mint tea, the national drink.
According to US News & World report, the country has an open, diverse market economy. Its key economic sectors include agriculture, aerospace, phosphates, textiles and apparel. Tourism and telecommunications sectors are becoming increasingly important.
Besides Morocco, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Mexico, France, India, Egypt, Thailand, Portugal, Japan, Brazil, China, UK, Ireland, Argentina, Austria, United States and Australia have also been included in the list of countries with richest culture and heritage.
