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Rabat – Bahija Simou, the Director of the Royal Archives of Morocco, has been awarded the prestigious Order of Merit of the Italian Republic in recognition of her efforts of promoting cultural heritage and deepening historical ties between Morocco and Italy.
The award, one of only ten presented each year, was bestowed upon Simou by Italian Ambassador to Morocco, Armando Barucco, on behalf of the President of the Italian Republic. The ceremony took place during Italy’s National Day celebration, exemplifying the enduring bonds between the two nations.
Ambassador Barucco highlighted the significance of the honor, describing it as a tribute to Simou’s “remarkable and exceptional contribution” to safeguarding Moroccan historical heritage and advancing scientific and cultural exchanges between Morocco and Italy.
In her remarks, Simou described the award as deeply symbolic, affirming that her research underscores “the geopolitical importance of both Morocco and Italy within the Euro-Mediterranean space.”
The renowned historian also reflected on the deep-rooted ties between Morocco and Italy, tracing their relationship back to the 12th century. She noted that after Italian unification, Morocco was quick to extend a hand of friendship to the new republic. In the post-independence era, Italy became one of Morocco’s earliest and most committed economic partners — a bond symbolized by Italy being the first European country visited by the late King Mohammed V.
Simou emphasized that the award “does not only crown a personal journey, but also affirms a commitment to a living, inclusive history — one that resists oblivion and brings to light memories long kept in the shadows.”
Simou’s recognition by Italy crowns a decades-long career dedicated to preserving Morocco’s historical legacy and strengthening its international cultural ties. Born in 1958 in the culturally rich Aït Aâtab with,in the Azilal Province of central Morocco, she has emerged as one of the country’s foremost historians, with a particular focus on military archives and diplomatic relations across the Euro-Mediterranean region.
As director of the royal archives, Simou has led groundbreaking research uncovering overlooked chapters of Moroccan history — including the country’s involvement in global events like the Korean War — and has championed the importance of collective memory in shaping national identity.
Her efforts have not only reinforced Morocco’s archival diplomacy, with successful partnerships across Europe, but have also earned her global recognition. In 2017, she was awarded France’s Legion of Honor. Now, with the Italian Order of Merit, her work stands as a testament to the enduring power of historical scholarship in building bridges between nations and generations.
