19 May 2023, Fes
Maison du Lac R495 [DH260]
Today we stopped by to photograph the main entrance to the Fes Palace of the King of Morocco*. Although much of the palace is older, this impressive entrance dates from the 20th century.
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Although Moroccan women dress modestly, most in headscarves and full-length tunics, many more fully covered, women's underwear is openly displayed in stores in the medina or souk. As most stores are manned by men, it seems women must purchase their intimate items from men. I would feel vaguely uncomfortable doing so, so find this juxtaposition interesting. (We have seen underwear labeled Calvim Kleim.)
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I promised awhile back to tell you something about the Berber symbol for free man which you find on the Berber flag, etched on hotel walls, crafted into jewelery, and laid out on mountain sides in stones painted white.
"The Yaz (ⵣ) symbolizes the term "free man". This important label is the meaning of the Berber word Amazigh, the Berbers' own name for themselves."
"It symbolizes the meaning of the word Amazigh (free man), with a figure standing strong on the earth, with its arms reaching out to the sky."
One day we were cycling a quiet road through hilly scenery when I spotted a goat herder on a ridge ahead of me. He and the goats were etched against a blue sky. Although I could not see it from a distance, it was clear from his outline that he held a long stick behind his neck and across his shoulders with his hands holding either end. And I could suddenly see exactly where the symbol had originated, his body the vertical line, his arms curled upward, his legs parted and standing firm.
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*ChatGPT: "The current King of Morocco is King Mohammed VI, who ascended to the throne on July 23, 1999, following the death of his father, King Hassan II. King Mohammed VI is a member of the Alaouite dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since the 17th century.
The Alaouite dynasty is one of the oldest royal houses in the world, with its origins traced back to the 13th century. The dynasty's founder, Moulay Ali Cherif, was a descendant of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Over the centuries, the Alaouite dynasty maintained its rule through a combination of political astuteness, military power, and the loyalty of various tribal groups within Morocco.
King Mohammed VI has played a significant role in modernizing Morocco and implementing political and social reforms. During his reign, he has prioritized economic development, human rights, and democratic reforms. He has launched various initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the country.
Morocco has a constitutional monarchy, which means that while the king holds significant power, there is also an elected parliament and a prime minister."