Oujda history

The history of the city of Oujda spans over a thousand years and is closely linked to its strategic position at the crossroads of civilizations. The city was founded in 994 AD by Ziri ibn Atiya, the chief of the Maghrawa Berber tribe, who established it as his capital. Located in the northeast of Morocco, near the border with Algeria, Oujda became an important military, political, and commercial centre from its very inception.

A key factor in the city's rise was its strategic location. Oujda controlled vital caravan routes connecting the interior regions of the Maghreb with the Mediterranean, serving as a gateway between the east and west of North Africa. Due to its significance, the city was a battleground for various dynasties over the centuries, including the Almoravids, Almohads, and Marinids, leading to its repeated destruction and reconstruction.

Oujda's early economy was based on transit trade and agriculture, which flourished on the surrounding fertile lands. Culturally, the city absorbed Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences, which is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and crafts. The Old Medina (historical centre) still preserves the spirit of that era, standing as a living monument to Oujda's rich past.

Timeline of Oujda's History

The history of Oujda is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting the city's strategic importance for over a thousand years. Here are the key moments of its rich past:

• 994 — Ziri ibn Atiya, chief of the Zenata Berber tribe, founds the city of Oujda, making it the capital of his emirate.
• 1079 — The city is conquered by the Almoravid dynasty under the leadership of Yusuf ibn Tashfin, leading to its destruction.
• 13th Century — Oujda is rebuilt and fortified under the Marinid dynasty, who construct the Great Mosque, a fortress, and new walls.
• 16th-18th Centuries — The city becomes an arena of conflict between Moroccan dynasties and the Ottoman Empire, changing hands repeatedly.
• 1795 — Sultan Moulay Slimane finally returns Oujda to the authority of the Moroccan Sultanate and begins its restoration.
• 1844 — French troops under the command of General Bugeaud temporarily occupy the city following the Battle of Isly.
• 1907 — The city is occupied by French forces led by General Lyautey, marking the beginning of the period of French influence in the region.
• 1912 — Following the signing of the Treaty of Fes, Oujda officially becomes part of the French Protectorate in Morocco.
• 1953 — Uprisings against French authorities break out in Oujda, as in other cities, in response to the exile of Sultan Mohammed V.
• 1956 — Morocco gains independence, and Oujda becomes a major administrative centre of the Kingdom's Oriental Region.
• 1994 — The closure of the border with Algeria significantly impacts the city's economy, which was traditionally oriented towards cross-border trade.

Key Milestones in Oujda's Development

Oujda's history is a reflection of its strategic position and its ability to adapt to changing eras. From a trading post to a modern administrative hub, the city has passed through several key stages that have defined its current appearance.

• Foundation as a Strategic Hub (994): The city was founded by Ziri ibn Atiya at the intersection of crucial caravan routes. This initially established its military and commercial significance, predetermining a turbulent history of struggles for its control.
• Urban Planning under the Marinids (13th Century): After numerous destructions, the city was extensively rebuilt and fortified by the Marinid dynasty. The construction of the fortress, walls, and the Great Mosque turned Oujda into a powerful outpost and a significant religious centre of the region.
• Creation of the "New City" (Early 20th Century): During the French Protectorate, a European quarter (Ville Nouvelle) was built next to the Old Medina. The emergence of a new administrative and residential zone with modern infrastructure, including railway connections, radically changed the urban structure and economy.
• Status as Administrative Centre (Since 1956): After Morocco gained independence, Oujda was established as the capital of the vast Oriental Region. This strengthened its role as a governmental, educational, and economic core in the northeast of the country.
• Opening of Mohammed I University (1978): The founding of the university was a major cultural and social event. The institution attracted youth to the city and fostered the development of science and an intellectual environment, transforming Oujda into a major educational hub.
• Economic Transformation after Border Closure (1994): The closure of the border with Algeria posed a serious challenge to the economy, which was traditionally focused on cross-border trade. This forced the city to seek new paths for development, stimulating growth in the services, industry, and agriculture sectors.
• Modern Modernization Projects (21st Century): In recent decades, large-scale projects have been implemented to develop infrastructure, create industrial zones (such as Med-Est), and improve urban spaces. These initiatives aim to diversify the economy and increase Oujda's investment appeal.

The architecture of Oujda presents a visual history of the city, where traditional Moorish motifs intertwine with European heritage and modern trends. The city is clearly divided into two main parts — the Old Medina and the "New City" (Ville Nouvelle), each reflecting its own historical era and architectural style.

Traditional Arab-Andalusian Architecture

The historical core of the city — the Medina — preserves traces of the Marinid era (13th century) and later dynasties. Its appearance is shaped by Arab-Andalusian architecture, albeit with local characteristics. Unlike the labyrinths of many other Moroccan medinas, the streets here are straighter and wider, a result of numerous reconstructions following past destructions. The foundations of this style include:

• Fortress Walls and Gates: The Old City is surrounded by the remains of defensive walls. Iconic elements include monumental gates, such as Bab Al Gharbi and Bab Sidi Abdelwahab, which served as the main entrances to the Medina.
• The Great Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-A'dam): Founded in the late 13th century under the Marinids, this mosque is a striking example of Moorish sacred architecture, featuring the region's characteristic minaret and strict yet harmonious forms.

French Protectorate Heritage: Ville Nouvelle

In the early 20th century, during the French Protectorate, the "New City" was built adjacent to the Medina. Its layout contrasts sharply with the old quarters: wide boulevards, squares, and a clear street grid. The architecture of this period represents an interesting blend of styles:

• Art Deco and Neo-Moorish Style: Many administrative and residential buildings were constructed in the Art Deco style with Neo-Moorish elements (Mauresque). This approach combined European functionality with Eastern decorative motifs: arches, patterned tiles, and ornaments. Striking examples can be seen in the design of the old post office, the Mohammed VI Theatre, and the railway station.

Modern Architecture

After gaining independence, Oujda continued to develop as an important administrative and economic centre. Modern urban planning focuses on expanding the city and creating new infrastructure. New residential areas and public buildings, such as the Mohammed I University campus, are distinguished primarily by a functional approach. Today's architecture strives for conciseness, although some projects show an attempt to integrate traditional Moroccan elements in a new interpretation, creating an eclectic yet recognizable cityscape.

Notable Figures Associated with Oujda

Situated at the crossroads of cultures and civilizations, Oujda has been the birthplace or a significant stage in the lives of many renowned figures across various fields — from politics and art to science and sports. Their destinies reflect the rich and multifaceted history of this Moroccan city.

• Ziri ibn Atiya — Founder of the city. In 994, this chief of the Maghrawa-Zenata Berber tribe founded Oujda, making it the capital of his emirate. His decision laid the foundation for the city's millennial history as a vital strategic and trading hub.
• Abdelaziz Bouteflika — Politician and former President of Algeria. He was born in Oujda on March 2, 1937, and spent his childhood and youth there. His connection to the city is an integral part of the 20th-century history of the entire Maghreb region.
• Nathalie Delon — French actress and director. Born in Oujda on August 1, 1941, as Francine Canovas. She rose to fame in the 1960s, notably for her role in the cult film "Le Samouraï," where she starred alongside her then-husband, Alain Delon.
• Les Frères Mégri — Musical group. Founded in Oujda, this band, consisting of brothers Hassan, Mahmoud, Younes, and their sister Jalila, pioneered Moroccan psychedelic folk-rock in the 1970s. Their work gained recognition not only in Morocco but also in Europe, leaving a significant mark on modern Arabic music.
• Fouad Laroui — Writer and economist. Born in Oujda in 1958, Laroui is one of the prominent contemporary Moroccan intellectuals. In his novels and essays, which have won numerous literary awards, he explores the nuances of Moroccan society with humour and irony.
• Philippe Séguin — French politician. Although born in Tunisia, his family hailed from Oujda, and he spent part of his childhood there after World War II. Séguin held high offices in French politics, including President of the National Assembly and Minister of Social Affairs.