The Shilha people

The Shilha people, also known as Ishelhien, Chleuh, or Schleuh, are a Berber ethnic group primarily residing in southern Morocco, particularly in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, High Atlas Mountains, Sous Valley, and the Soussi coastal regions. Their name, “Shilha,” is derived from Arabic, but they call themselves “Ishelhien,” which means “the free people” in their native Berber language. The Shilha are part of the larger Berber community, which includes several subgroups like the Tuareg, Rif, Kabyle, and Shawia.

The Shilha people have a rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted in their Berber origins. They speak various dialects of the Berber language, which is part of the Afroasiatic language family. While many Shilha people have also adopted Arabic, Berber remains a crucial aspect of their identity. Their traditional way of life revolves around agriculture, animal husbandry, and handicrafts, with many people still working the land and raising livestock in the mountains and valleys.

The Shilha people have historically been known for their resilience and adaptability. Their mountainous terrain provides natural protection, which has allowed them to preserve much of their culture and traditions despite external influences. The Shilha practice Sunni Islam, which is the dominant religion in Morocco, but their religious practices are often intertwined with pre-Islamic Berber traditions.

In addition to their agricultural lifestyle, the Shilha are renowned for their music, dance, and crafts. Their artistic traditions, including weaving, pottery, and silver jewelry, reflect their rich cultural heritage. Over time, many Shilha people have migrated to urban areas or abroad, particularly to France, where large Shilha communities exist.

Overall, the Shilha people are a proud and resilient group that has maintained their unique cultural identity throughout centuries of change.