The history of the Moroccan monarchy is arriving on French bookshelves with a new work by Stéphane Bern. Entitled Mohammed VI: Heritage and Destiny of the Alaouite Monarchy, the book will be published on 14 October 2026 by Albin Michel.
In this volume, the author retraces the history of the Alaouite dynasty and looks back at the transformations Morocco has undergone since independence. He also devotes several chapters to the reign of Mohammed VI, which began in 1999.
Stéphane Bern revisits four centuries of Alaouite history
In this book, Stéphane Bern explores the history of the Alaouite dynasty, which came to power in 1666 with Moulay Rachid.
The narrative is placed within a much older monarchical tradition. The book recalls the dynasties that preceded the Alaouites, from the Idrissids to the Saadians.
The author focuses on the lives of 29 sultans and three kings, examining how royal authority has evolved and how the Moroccan state has gradually taken shape.
King Mohammed VI at the heart of the story
The book goes beyond a simple chronological account. Stéphane Bern also dedicates a substantial part of his work to the reign of Mohammed VI.
Since ascending the throne in 1999, the king has launched a series of reforms and supported major infrastructure projects. The book sets these developments within the long-term history of the Moroccan monarchy.
According to the publisher’s presentation, the author also drew on conversations with individuals close to the Royal Court. These exchanges helped him refine his portrait of the king and his way of exercising power.
A political and spiritual monarchy
Stéphane Bern also looks at what makes the Moroccan monarchy a unique institution.
The king holds political responsibilities and bears the title of “Amir Al Mouminine”, or Commander of the Faithful. This religious dimension has played a central role throughout the history of the Alaouite monarchy.
The book examines how the royal institution has navigated political and social change. It highlights, in particular, the period leading up to Moroccan independence in 1956, followed by the developments that have shaped the modern kingdom.
Stéphane Bern, between history and heritage
Journalist and radio and television host, Stéphane Bern is well known for his programmes devoted to history and royal families.
He has authored numerous works on monarchs, dynasties and heritage. With this new book, he turns his attention to a monarchy whose history spans several centuries.
The work runs to 368 pages in its paperback edition, published by Albin Michel at a listed price of €23.90.
A book to discover the history of the Moroccan monarchy
With Mohammed VI: Heritage and Destiny of the Alaouite Monarchy, Stéphane Bern offers an account that combines dynastic history with a portrait of the current sovereign.
The book revisits the origins of the Alaouite dynasty, its evolution and its role in shaping contemporary Morocco. It is aimed at readers who want to better understand the links between the kingdom’s history and its current institutions.
Its publication is also an opportunity to bring the history of the Moroccan monarchy to a wider French-speaking audience, including Moroccans living abroad.
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