Barghawata
They call themselves Buṛɣwaṭa
Berber confederation of 29 tribes on Morocco's Atlantic coast, 8th–11th centuries
The Barghawata were a Berber tribal confederation and religious movement that ruled the Atlantic coastal region of present-day Morocco from the 8th to 11th centuries. They formed an independent state after the Berber Revolt, blending indigenous beliefs with Islam and developing a unique religious tradition. Their confederacy included 29 tribes and lasted over three centuries.
- Confederation of 29 Berber tribes in Atlantic Morocco
- Practiced a unique syncretic religion blending Berber beliefs and Islam
- Ruled independently from 744 to 1058
- Spoke a Berber language called Lisan al-Gharbi
- Resisted Umayyad, Fatimid, and Almoravid invasions
Who were the Barghawata?
The Barghawata were a confederation of 29 Berber tribes who lived along the Atlantic coast of what is now Morocco. They emerged in the 8th century, uniting under leaders from the Matghari family after the Berber Revolt against the Umayyad Caliphate. The confederation was held together by both political alliances and a distinctive religious movement, which set them apart from neighboring groups. Their society combined indigenous Berber traditions with new religious teachings, creating a unique identity that lasted for centuries.
Where did the Barghawata live?
The Barghawata lived in the Tamesna region, a fertile stretch of land along the Atlantic coast between the towns of Safi and Salé in present-day Morocco. This area provided access to both coastal resources and inland plains, supporting agriculture and settlement. The region was well-suited for farming and was strategically positioned for interaction with other Berber groups and outside powers.
What language did the Barghawata speak?
The Barghawata spoke a Berber language known as Lisan al-Gharbi. This language was part of the broader Berber family, which is indigenous to North Africa. While little is known about the specific features of their dialect, it served as a key marker of their identity and was likely used in both daily life and religious practice.
How did the Barghawata live?
The Barghawata made their living primarily through farming, taking advantage of the fertile lands of the Tamesna region. They cultivated crops suited to the Atlantic coastal climate and likely raised livestock as well. Their settled way of life supported the development of villages and small towns. Tools and houses would have reflected local Berber traditions, using materials available in the region.
How was Barghawata society organised?
Barghawata society was organized as a confederation of 29 tribes, each with its own leaders but united under a central authority. Leadership passed through the Matghari family, with kings such as Ṣāliḥ ibn Tarīf and his descendants ruling for decades. Marriage rules and family structures were shaped by their religious laws, which permitted polygamy and set restrictions on marriage partners. Decision-making combined tribal councils with the authority of the ruling family.
What did the Barghawata believe?
The Barghawata practiced a unique monotheistic religion that blended Berber beliefs with Islamic influences. Their sacred text, attributed to Ṣāliḥ ibn Tarīf, contained both historical narratives and religious laws. Rituals included special prayers and dietary rules, such as prohibitions on certain foods. The religion recognized Muhammad and other Biblical figures but centered on local deities like Yakush. Religious law shaped daily life, including marriage, justice, and dietary practices.
The history of the Barghawata
The Barghawata rose to prominence after joining the Berber Revolt against the Umayyad Caliphate in the early 8th century. After leaving the rebel alliance, they established an independent state in Tamesna around 744. Over the next three centuries, they consolidated their kingdom, resisted invasions from the Umayyads, Fatimids, and later the Almoravids. Despite internal and external pressures, they maintained their independence until the Almohads eliminated them as a distinct group in 1149.
What became of the Barghawata?
The Barghawata no longer exist as a distinct people or political entity. Their confederacy ended in the 12th century after defeat by the Almohads. Today, their legacy survives in historical records and the memory of their unique religious and social system in Moroccan history.
Questions people ask about the Barghawata
Where did the Barghawata live?
The Barghawata lived along the Atlantic coast of present-day Morocco, mainly in the Tamesna region between Safi and Salé.
How many Barghawata were there?
The Barghawata confederacy was made up of 29 tribes, but no exact population figure is given in the sources.
What language did the Barghawata speak?
They spoke a Berber language known as Lisan al-Gharbi, part of the broader Berber language family.
What was unique about Barghawata religion?
Their religion blended indigenous Berber beliefs with Islamic elements, centering on a sacred text and unique rituals, and was distinct from mainstream Islam.
What happened to the Barghawata?
The Barghawata were defeated and eliminated as a political and religious group by the Almohads in the 12th century.
Sources and further reading
This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Barghawata themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.
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