A famous Moroccan proverb says, “Marriage is one night, but managing it takes a year.” This saying perfectly applies to Moroccan traditional wedding, especially in Zagora. Situated between mountains and the desert, Zagora is a city full of history in northern Morocco. Its people embrace simplicity and carry an air of warmth and kindness. Walking through the streets, you immediately feel the locals’ hospitality, characterized by modesty, respect, and the heartfelt greetings they extend.
The Warmth of Zagora’s Hospitality
The people of Zagora are renowned for their hospitality. The moment they detect a stranger, invitations to eat, rest, or even spend the night flow freely. Offering dates and milk is a deeply rooted tradition, especially during Moroccan traditional weddings. Despite the rise of capitalism, this community has preserved its customs and traditions, holding onto them with pride.
A City of Celebrations
Zagora’s festive atmosphere never fades, whether it’s day or night. The locals love to celebrate, dance, and compose poetry. These talents are often passed down through generations and are central to their Moroccan traditional weddings, which stretch over seven days of joyful events.
The Roles of Moulay Sultan and Lwazir
In a Moroccan traditional wedding, the groom is referred to as “Moulay Sultan.” He receives help from a younger family member or friend, known as “Lwazir.” Once the bride accepts the proposal, both families begin wedding preparations. They start by slaughtering animals, inviting guests, cleaning, buying clothes, and preparing the bride’s trousseau.
The Wedding Procession
The groom leads a procession from his house, veiled and mounted on a horse, with a sword at his side. He wears a white djellaba and a black selham (cloak), while holding a pomegranate and two almonds. These elements are deeply symbolic in Moroccan traditional weddings. Behind him, a group of people follows, singing and playing music.
Henna Day Traditions
Henna Day is one of the most important events in a Moroccan traditional wedding. The bride and groom both have henna applied in a joyous celebration filled with songs and ululations. After his father or uncle lines his eyes with kohl, the groom’s hands and feet are adorned with henna, marking his transformation for the wedding.
A unique tradition in Zagora involves throwing stones at the groom during Henna Night. The groom’s head, covered with henna, is then subjected to stone-throwing by young men, children, and even some elders who enjoy teasing. The groom tries his best to avoid the stones, using his hands and feet to block them, proving his worth as “Moulay Sultan.”
The Gift Procession
After several days of festivities, the gift-giving ceremony takes place. Guests present a variety of gifts to the bride, including clothes, jewelry, livestock, and food. The bride’s family collects these, along with her trousseau, and carries them to the groom’s house in a lively procession. Curiously, the bride’s mother is not allowed to accompany her, a tradition with a mysterious origin.
The Final Night
On the final night of the Moroccan traditional wedding, the bride wears traditional Zagora attire. She gathers with her female relatives and friends, who sing and recite poems that carry wisdom and love stories. The groom’s grandmother applies henna to the bride’s head, signifying the final blessing before she is taken to the room prepared for the couple.