As spring blankets the Moroccan city of Marrakesh with its vibrant colors and fragrant blooms, locals gather to celebrate a cherished tradition: the distillation of orange blossoms.
Dating back generations, this ancestral practice holds a special place in Morocco’s national heritage, embodying the rich cultural tapestry of the region. In Marrakesh, families have dutifully preserved this tradition, passing down the art of orange blossom distillation from one generation to the next.
Jaafar el-Kenousi, co-founder of the Al Munya Association, attributes the credit for these celebrations to the women of Marrakesh and Morocco, whose steadfast dedication has ensured the continuity of this time-honored tradition.
The Al Munya Association, a non-governmental organization, has played a pivotal role in transforming this once-private family affair into a public celebration, infused with cultural significance and festivity.
Also, read: Veteran Nollywood Actor Amaechi Muonagor Passes Away at 62
Each year, Marrakesh hosts the annual Zahria festival, marking a jubilant occasion where locals come together to honor the capital of sour and bitter orange, also known as bigarade orange. Orange flower water, a byproduct of the distillation process, holds a cherished place in Moroccan cuisine and culture, often used in pastries, mint tea, and religious ceremonies.
Saadia Boufous, a member of the Al Munya Association, describes this year’s Zahria festival as particularly special, with workshops and events engaging a diverse audience, including young children. Beyond its cultural significance, the celebration has garnered interest from academics, researchers, pharmacists, perfumers, and traders alike.
In an effort to preserve this cherished tradition for future generations, the Al Munya Association plans to seek recognition from UNESCO, the United Nations’ scientific, educational, and cultural organization.
As Morocco celebrates the timeless ritual of orange blossom distillation, the essence of tradition and community spirit permeates the air of Marrakesh, serving as a testament to the enduring beauty of cultural heritage.
