Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve of the Mediterranean

Both countries are located in a biogeographic region of deciduous forests and evergreen sclerophyllous scrub within the Mediterranean bioclimatic zone.

The Moroccan section of the intercontinental biosphere reserve is located in the region of Djbala on the Tingitan Peninsula, adjacent to the Strait of Gibraltar.

It is bordered by the Gharb plain and the hills of Hafs to the west, the Rif Central to the east, the Mediterranean coastline to the north, and the western Prerif to the south.

Endemic fauna species include Chalcides colosii (Riffian skink), Blanus tingitanus (a reptile of the family Blanidae), and Lacerta pater tangitana.

The Moroccan part of the reserve is home to rare flora species found exclusively in the area of Djebala, including Acer granatense, Alnus glutinousa (Common alder), and Betula celtiberica.

In the Spanish part of the reserve, the Mediterranean climate induces rich vegetation growth, with forest covering more than 60% of the area, of which 49% is dominated by deciduous trees.

Abies pinsapo (Spanish fir), Culcita macrocarpa, and Dryopteris guanchica are some of the endangered flora species under strict protection.

Thousands of people visit annually to perform a pilgrimage in honour of the Sufi saint, Moulay Abdessalam Ben Mchich.

The area is also famous for archaeological and historical sites such as the ancient Phoenician and Roman town, Lixus, near Larache.

The area was also under Spanish rule and numerous agricultural products produced today, such as Olea europaea (olive), are of Andalusian origin.

Ever since the Middle Ages, water has had a crucial meaning for the local population, representing the development and creation of life.