By Amel Tafsout
The Maghreb is in North Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Lybia, and Mauritania (since the 1989
formation of the Arab Maghren Union and the disputed territory of Western Sahara (mostly controlled by Morocco).
Until recently, weddings in the Maghreb lasted for seven days. The process today remains relatively the same, although
shorter in length, and weddings are rarely held at home as venues are rented for the occasion. Traditionally, the wedding
lasts one week, with a special occasion
each day that may concern the bride,
the groom, or both of them. Although
the current modernity has changed
many traditions, some people remain
attached to their ancestral traditions,
their heritage, and cultural identity.
A marriage is not only a contract, a
relationship between two people; it is
rather a matter between two families,
if not two tribes. Marriage ceremonies
became very expensive, especially in
cities, and the two families must agree
on the expenses.
A young couple who is about to get
married today has more financial
difficulties since the price of gold
jewelry is very expensive. Today, it is
harder for North African men to find
a wife and/or stay married as their
lives are dictated between traditional
rules and modern life; therefore, the
bridegroom must bow to tradition and
buy whatever is requested. Otherwise,
he cannot get married. This is a
tradition that has been inherited
from their ancestors, and men feel
they must preserve and respect the
Amel’s Henna Party
Photo provided by Amel Tafsout
January 2020
The Belly Dance Chronicles
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