Tbourida: The epic of gunpowder and chivalry that sums up the history of Morocco
In Morocco, Tbourida is not just a display of traditional horsemanship; it is a true celebration that encapsulates a rich history of courage, generosity, and a deep connection to the land. It is a moving artistic masterpiece that blends the sound of gunpowder with the neighing of horses, and the knights' decorations with the heritage of their ancestors. Every movement, every costume, and every shot of gunpowder in Tbourida tells a story about Morocco and Moroccans.
From battlefields to celebration squares
The origins of Tbourida go back centuries, when it served as a military training exercise for Moroccan military forces, testing the skills of horsemen in coordination and maneuvering. These performances simulated battles and wars, demonstrating the fighters' readiness to defend their homeland. Over time, these war rituals have evolved into a festive tradition performed on major occasions such as holidays, weddings, and especially during "seasons."
It is considered Seasons“ The beating heart that sustains the continuity of Tbourida. These are annual gatherings held in various Moroccan regions, combining religious, cultural, and commercial aspects. Each season, Tbourida is the culmination of the celebration, where teams, or "serbat," compete for the admiration of the audience and showcase their equestrian skills.
Al-Sarba: a harmonious rhythm between riders and horses
The Tbourida group, or as it is known locally as “the squad”, consists of a specific number of knights, often ranging from 10 to 15 knights, led by a veteran knight called The presenter“The Lieutenant Colonel is considered the squadron's leader and is responsible for setting the pace of the parade. At his signal, the cavalry begins to charge, and at a decisive moment determined by him, they fire the gunpowder in a synchronized and exciting scene.
The harmony between the riders and horses, and between the leader and the rest of the squad, is the foundation of a successful show. The riders set off in a straight line, known as the "khalla."Their horses' legs are even, as if they were one horse. When the leader gives the signal for the end, the riders fire the gunpowder shots at the same moment, creating a thunderous sound known as“Tabourida,” or “Taghreeda” in some areas, excites the audience and sends the excitement skyrocketing.
Knights' Costumes and Horse Decorations: A Heritage Artwork
No Tbourida is complete without its unique costumes and elaborate equipment. The riders wear The jalabiya“ And "Al-Salham"It is a wide, loose robe, and they put it on their heads. The turban“They may also wear The daggerAndThe “belt” is made of leather. They also carry traditional long rifles called The kohl stick“, which are decorated with silver ornaments.
As for horses, they receive a generous share of decoration and attention. Horses are adorned with a luxurious saddle known as a "tabsheer.", andThe embroidered bridle and the stirrup made of silver or gold. These accessories showcase the status of the rider and his horse, reflecting Moroccans' pride in these noble animals.
Horses in Moroccan Culture: More Than Just a Mean of Transportation
The horse holds a special place in Moroccan culture, a symbol of strength, authenticity, and generosity. It has always been the knight's companion in his travels, battles, and victories. For this reason, horses are given utmost importance in Morocco and are considered an integral part of the family.
Tbourida demonstrates this deep connection, with riders treating their horses with love and respect, training them for years of showmanship. Horse races are also held, and good horses are considered a true treasure, passed down from generation to generation.
Art that embraces the world
In 2021, UNESCO inscribed Tbourida on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, in recognition of its profound cultural symbolism and its role in preserving Moroccan identity. This global recognition confirms that Tbourida is not just a local performance, but rather an ancient art form that deserves to be recognized and celebrated globally.
Due to Moroccans' intense passion for this art form and the special place it occupies in the hearts of all Moroccans, the phenomenon of girls practicing this traditional sport has recently emerged, adding even more uniqueness to this ancient heritage deeply rooted in the history and memory of Moroccans from all over the world.
Tbourida is an open invitation to delve into the depths of authentic Moroccan heritage and discover the culture of a people who have lived and continue to live proudly in their horses and riders. This pride is expressed in an unforgettable dance of gunpowder and courage.
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