Morocco

Morocco: the age-old maritime culture of Safi

With its age-old maritime tradition, Morocco will be a guest of honour of the upcoming Tonnerres de Brest.

Both on water and on the quayside, Morocco's presence will be an opportunity to discover an often little-known yet rich tradition, especially in the region of Safi, the country's main port. The Tonnerres de Brest 2012 will be a tremendous opportunity to discover the cultures of the Maghreb, and a vector of exchanges between peoples.

Relive the Odyssey of Ra II

The Morocco village will take you right back to the great odyssey of Ra II, a replica of an ancient boat made of papyrus that left the Moroccan shores in 1970 bound for America. The Norwegian scholar Thor Heyerdhal, who headed the expedition, cast off from Safi with an international crew - Americans, Soviets, Egyptians, Italians, Mexicans, Japanese and the Moroccan Madani Ait Ouhani - under the UN flag. Heyerdhal wanted to demonstrate that the oceans have never been a barrier between peoples and that human civilisation is the result of this cultural melting pot. Values that perfectly match the philosophy behind the Tonnerre de Brest!

Safi, the birthplace of Moroccan maritime culture

The boats of yesterday and today, from the port of Safi, will be on show during the six days of festivities. A Gwareb, a traditional wooden ship, will be rebuilt by a shipyard at Safi, and a flotilla of small fishing boats used every day by fishermen, will be transported to the port. Tonnerres de Brest 2012 will also be an opportunity to see a traditional Moroccan fishing boat being rebuilt. It will be assembled and launched during the festival. Numerous events will be held on the quaysides, including an "Exhibition pavilion", inviting the public to relive the age-old history of maritime Morocco.

"Fish couscous"… eat without moderation

The country's culinary traditions will have place of honour in the village, for the delight of gourmets and food-lovers! The well-known "fish couscous", the great speciality of Safi, will enchant and transport you from the quays of Brest to the shores of the Maghreb. You will also be stirred by the songs of Moroccan sailors. The music of the "Gnaouas", the descendants of slaves, will captivate visitors with its entrancing and mysterious chords.