The Souk in Agadir
Traditional things, food and a lot of people, this is the shortest definition of a SOUK. Defined by many people as a place with everything, it is, in fact, the place where you can go back in the history and visit a very conservative market. The Souk can be found in every city or town, being considered a symbol of the moroccan culture. It is usually situated in the center and it is between walls, like a small castle.
Agadir Souk is one of the largest souks in Morocco with over 2000 stalls and shops where you can buy everything and anything. Although it is called Sunday Market-as once Sunday was the market day in Agadir- it is open daily except on Mondays.
For example, argan oil, the moroccan gold, is everywhere in a souk. Apparently, argan oil is used to dip bread in at breakfast or to drizzle on couscous or pasta. Also, Moroccans traditionally use un-roasted Argan oil to treat skin diseases, and as a cosmetic oil for skin and hair. Argan oil is used for hair as brilliantine, to fortify and in the treatment of wrinkled or scaly dry skin. They also use Argan oil to prepare a local sauce called Amlou.. Amlou is a delicious Moroccan dip made from toasted almonds and argan oil .. you can find local women preparing amlou in front of argan oils’ shops.. it is very interesting process to watch.
In souk you can also find a lot of jewellery shops . In Berber culture, jewelry has a symbolic and mythical meaning besides their practical and ornamental function, as they are used as charms and talismans to protect against evil spirits and influences. So, with a various collection of Berber & Arab jewellery you will definetly find some gifts for you and your family.
Not least, you can find a section for clothes and scarfs in souk.. Moroccans are overall a stylish and smart nation and they prefer to dress up with fashionable and impressive clothing.. both men and women wear a same traditional attire which is called Djellaba (a long loose hooded garment with full sleeves).
The spices are most colourful and odorous part of souk and it is really important for moroccan cuisine like Tagines & Couscos .. you can find cumin , turmeric, ginger, ingredients that will give you a better taste for the traditional food.
From my point of view, the most interesting thing about the souk that everything is relative. There are not fixed prices, everything can be negociated there. Usually, people ask for a huge one, especially if you are a tourist, but if you have “bargain” skills, it can easily change. The patience is the key for a cheap present.
Souk is an interesting place, a piece of the culture of Morocco. It is a traditional market, where you can find either classic gifts, or typically products that can be only found here.
Photos by Andreea Zelincu & Irem Tastan
