Located just between the Japan and France pavilions in World Showcase at Epcot is the Morocco pavilion. This weekend, the 7th to be exact, is the 30th anniversary of the pavilion. The Morocco pavilion was the first addition to World Showcase, after the opening of Epcot.
The Moroccan Pavilion, designed to look like a Moroccan city with a realistic Minaret, features the only pavilion in which the country’s government aided in the design. Guests to the pavilion gain insight on the lifestyle and culture of the Moroccan people through the Gallery of Arts and History. The Fes House shows guests the typical Moroccan house. Inside the pavilion, North African plants including citrus trees, date palms, and olive trees, and fountains can be seen. The courtyard plays hosts to entertainment, including a belly dancing show in the evening. Restaurant Marrakesh, along with the Tangierine Cafe, serve Moroccan fare, including roast lamb in Tajine, Couscous, and Harira soup. Six shops adorn the pavilion, selling patrons everything from rugs to leathergoods, and traditional Moroccan clothing.
Some of the major defining structures of the pavilion include Chellah, a replication of the necropolis in Rabat, and the Koutoubia, a replica of the minaret of the same name inMarrakesh. A replica of Bab Boujeloud, the gateway to the Fez medina leads you to a Bazaar area.
King Hassan II actually sent Moroccan artisans to design and create the many mosaics. Due to Islamic religious beliefs on the content of art, the mosaics contain norepresentations of people. The government also sponsors the pavilion, while a corporation holds sponsoring rights on every other pavilion.
The Tower of Terror in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is seen at an angle from the Moroccan pavilion, and the top of the Tower is designed so it blends in with the Moroccan architecture.
Here is a picture that was shared on the Disney Parks Blog of the pavilion when it was still under construction:
As co-owner and co-creator of The Main Street Mouse.Working in a technical support position for 18 years, it was time for a change.As the Webmaster and Project Planner, I spend most of my time researching everything from the latest Disney News, technology advances and of course keeping up on all the Marvel news that comes out.I never considered myself a writer but I’ve come to like blogging and sharing news with all.I feel blessed everyday that I get to spend my days working with my best friend and love of my life while we continue to grow and expand what started as a hobby all those years ago.
- Holiday Celebrations Begin Today at Universal Orlando Resort - November 22, 2024
- Universal Orlando Great Travel Deal Ahead of Black Friday - November 21, 2024
- SeaWorld and Aquatica Orlando Launch Holiday Deals - November 19, 2024