tea house

The History of Tea in Morocco – How It BeganTea is not native to Morocco, but over the centuries it became a powerful symbol of hospitality, culture, and daily .LIFE🌍 How Did Tea Come to Morocco?Tea was introduced to Morocco in the 18th or 19th century, most likely during trade and diplomatic exchanges with Europe.One strong theory is that British merchants brought green tea to Moroccan ports like Tangier and Essaouira during the 1850s, when they were unable to sell it in China during wartime.The Moroccans began mixing it with local ingredients like mint, absinthe (chiba), lemon verbena, rosemary, and sage, creating their own unique blends.🍃 Atay: A Cultural RitualThe name “Atay” comes from the Arabic word for tea: "الشاي".Making tea in Morocco became more than a drink — it is a ritual of generosity and hospitality, often performed by the head of the family or host.It is usually prepared with green gunpowder tea, a generous amount of sugar, and fresh herbs, served in a metal teapot and poured from high to create foam.🫖 The Tea CeremonyThe Moroccan tea ceremony has three servings, each cup symbolizing different values:The first is bitter like lifeThe second is strong like loveThe third is sweet like deathThis tradition is especially strong in Fes, Marrakech, the Rif, and Sahara regions, with each area adding its own touch — from stronger herbs in the mountains to sweeter blends in the desert.Today, tea is a part of everyday life in Morocco, served during meals, meetings, celebrations, and even in the desert under the stars.