A Literary Tour of Morocco: Follow in the Footsteps of Famous Writers
Explore Morocco through the eyes of writers past and present. Discover Tangier’s literary legends, Moroccan authors in translation, cozy book cafés, and book festivals across the country.
Morocco literature, writers in Morocco, book lovers travel, literary Morocco, Moroccan authors, Marrakech Book Fair
Paul Bowles and the Spirit of Tangier
Tangier, perched on the edge of the Mediterranean and Atlantic, has long inspired writers, poets, and wanderers—none more famously than Paul Bowles.
Why Tangier Matters:
Bowles’ novel The Sheltering Sky captured the existential pull of Morocco’s landscapes.
The city became a literary refuge in the 1950s and 60s, attracting names like Tennessee Williams, William S. Burroughs, and Jean Genet.
Visit the Tangier American Legation Museum, home to exhibits celebrating this literary era.
Stroll along Café Hafa, where poets watched the sea while sipping mint tea.
Tangier remains a city of creative energy and reflection, perfect for literary pilgrimage.
Moroccan Literature in Translation
While Morocco has inspired many foreign writers, it also boasts a rich body of native literature, now increasingly available in translation.
Notable Moroccan Authors:
Tahar Ben Jelloun – his works explore identity, exile, and migration (This Blinding Absence of Light).
Leïla Slimani – Franco-Moroccan author and Goncourt Prize winner (The Perfect Nanny).
Driss Chraïbi – a pioneer in post-colonial Moroccan literature (The Simple Past).
Mohammed Choukri – his autobiography For Bread Alone shocked and fascinated readers worldwide.
Many bookstores in Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech carry English and French translations, making it easy to discover Morocco’s literary soul.
Bookstores and Literary Cafés
For book lovers, Morocco offers atmospheric independent bookstores and literary cafés where you can read, reflect, and connect with local culture.
Places to Visit:
Librairie des Colonnes (Tangier): A historic bookstore visited by major literary icons.
Dar Chrifa Book Café (Rabat): A peaceful reading space with coffee and rare Moroccan books.
Le 33 Majorelle (Marrakech): Bookshop and concept store near Jardin Majorelle.
Café Clock (Fes & Marrakech): A lively spot that hosts storytelling nights, music, and book events.
These venues offer a tranquil retreat from the bustling medinas—and a deeper insight into Morocco’s storytelling traditions.
Attending the Marrakech International Book Fair
Held annually, the Marrakech International Book Fair brings together authors, publishers, and readers from across Morocco and the Arab world.
What to Expect:
Book launches, signings, and panel discussions
Spotlight on Moroccan and Maghrebi authors
Children’s storytelling sessions and cultural exhibits
Opportunities to meet local writers and publishers
It’s a great way to connect with Morocco’s literary scene, especially if your trip coincides with the event in February or March.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re tracing the steps of famous writers in Tangier, discovering hidden literary cafés, or diving into Moroccan novels, this country offers a poetic and intellectual journey like no other.
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