MyWDW: Morocco Pavilion

Being the first expansion of Epcot's World Showcase when it opened in September of 1984, three years after the opening of the park, Morocco brought something new to the mostly European-influenced World Showcase. The architecture and culture of Morocco was a very big departure, indeed, and to this day the rough-hewn stone stands out amongst the rest of the World Showcase skyline. Some of the pieces of architecture which influenced the pavilion are the Koutoubia, the large minaret prominent in the pavilion, and a replica of the Bab Boujeloud gateway of Fez. King Hassan II of Morocco sent some of his best artisans to create the mosaics you will see throughout the pavilion.

As you explore the pavilion, be sure to check out the Gallery of Arts, featuring rotating exhibits of items of beauty from Morocco, and the Fez House, a representation of the center courtyard of a typical home in Morocco. Be sure to stay in the Fez House for a few moments, as you may hear the residents busily getting ready for guests they weren't expecting.

If shopping is your goal, Morocco has it in spades. From Moroccan jewelry and handmade daggers at Tangier Traders, the Brass Bazaar's brass and silver works, the ceramics of Medina Arts, and fine rugs from Casablanca Carpets, there's a little something for every shopper - including a section dedicated to aspiring belly dancers at Souk-Al-Magreb, which also features fezzes and rose water, among other various items.

If entertainment is what you seek, be sure to check the show times for Mo'Rockin, a band of rock performers who use Arabic rhythms in their music, often accompanied by a belly dancer. Character also make an appearance in the Morocco Pavilion - if you're a fan of the film Aladdin, be sure to keep an eye out for Aladdin, Jasmine, and the Genie throughout the day!

If you're a fan of Mediterranean food, you'll be quite pleased with the selections available in Morocco. Beginning with the main restaurant featured in the pavilion, the Restaurant Marrakesh, you'll find traditional Harira soup, a hearty item made with eggs, tomatoes, lentils, and lamb; bastillas, a flaky meat pie made with various different kinds of meat, though traditionally it is made using squab; as well as many other entrees, including. of course, plenty of couscous.

If you prefer to not go for a full seated meal, but still want some tasty Mediterranean fare, look no further than the Tangerine Cafe, featuring multiple options of shawarma platters, kefta, and tabouleh, among other treats - including everyone's favorite Mediterranean dessert: baklava.

If you're simply seeking to enjoy some coffee or a Moroccan mint tea before Illuminations starts up, make your way over to the Morocco Coffee and Pastries shop - also featuring baklava to go with your coffee or tea.

- Look to the doors of the shop on the Lagoon side of the pavilion and you'll note a trio of platters mounted on the wall in a configuration which I'm sure is familiar to you by now!

- As you explore the pavilion, you'll come across a mural depicting an overview of a town in Morocco, very reminiscent of Agrabah of Aladdin fame. I won't give you any more hints than this, but there are at least three classic tri-circle Mickeys hidden in this work of art!