What You Need to Know
Historically, the Berbers lived and ruled in Morocco and throughout much of North Africa. Arabs, Spanish, Phoenecians, Jews, as well as sub-Saharan Africans have all had their influence in the region. Today, Berbers make up about half the population of Morocco, with most of the other half being Arabs. Smaller ethno-linguistic groups are also found in the country.
Christianity was introduced to Morocco in the second century and gained numerous converts. However, in the seventh century Muslims conquered North Africa and most Christians adopted Islam. Today the presence of Christianity in Morocco is small but gives evidence of growth.
Remants of Europe are found on the coast of Morocco in the form of two Spanish enclaves, Cueta and Melilla. These enclaves can be reached by a relatively short ferry ride from Spanish coastal cities. Cueta and Melilla are Spanish territories where there is freedom of religion.
Morocco claims and administers most of Western Sahara, except for some of the southern region, which is administered by the Polisario Front.