Ronda: Morocco’s Favorite Card Game and a Taste of Tradition
When you think of Morocco, you may picture fragrant spices, bustling souks, glasses of mint tea shared with friends, and meals prepared with extra virgin olive oil. But Moroccan culture is also rich with games and pastimes that bring people together. One of the most cherished is Ronda, a classic card game passed down for generations. Just as Moresh Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds flavor and connection to everyday meals, Ronda gathers families and friends around the table.
The Backstory of Ronda
Ronda is believed to have originated during Morocco’s historic ties with Spain. Its name means “round” in Spanish, referring to the circular rhythm of gameplay. For centuries, Moroccans have played Ronda in cafés, courtyards, and family homes. More than a pastime, it’s a ritual of togetherness. Like preparing couscous on Fridays or drizzling olive oil over freshly baked bread, playing Ronda is about connection—filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a touch of bluffing.
How to Play Ronda
The rules of Ronda are simple enough for beginners, yet strategic enough to keep even seasoned players engaged.
Players: 2 players, or 4 in teams of 2
Deck: A 40-card deck (remove 8s, 9s, and 10s)
Goal: Capture cards from the table by matching their rank. The team with the most captures and combinations wins.
Setup: Each player is dealt 3 cards. No cards are placed face-up at the start.
Gameplay: Players take turns playing a card. If it matches one on the table, it’s captured; if not, it stays on the table. Only one capture is allowed per turn.
Ronda! The highlight of the game is when a player captures with the same rank as their previous turn. That’s when they shout “Ronda!” and score bonus points. Do it twice in a row and you’ve got a Double Ronda!
Memory & Bluffing: Winning takes more than luck—skilled players track which cards have been played and use bluffing to throw opponents off.
Scoring:
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1 point for each Ronda
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Bonus points for capturing the most cards
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First team to reach 21 or 41 points wins
Why Ronda Matters in Moroccan Culture
Much like Moroccan cuisine, Ronda embodies balance, tradition, and community. It’s not just about winning—it’s about enjoying the company of others. From lively cafés in Casablanca to cozy family nights in Marrakesh, Ronda is woven into the fabric of Moroccan life.
Pairing Ronda with Moroccan Flavors
A game of Ronda is often enjoyed with tea, snacks, or light bites drizzled with Moroccan olive oil. Picture a table filled with roasted vegetables, warm bread, and a bowl of olives—the sounds of laughter and playful rivalry mingling with the aroma of shared food. That’s Moroccan hospitality at its finest.
At Moresh, we celebrate traditions like Ronda—moments that bring people closer together. Just as this timeless game has endured, our 100% Moroccan Extra Virgin Olive Oil carries forward the heritage, flavor, and craftsmanship of Morocco.
Bring Tradition to Your Table
Next time you gather with friends or family, set out a deck of cards, some Moroccan-inspired snacks, and a bottle of Moresh Extra Virgin Olive Oil. With every pour, drizzle, or dip, you’re not just enjoying olive oil—you’re experiencing a piece of Morocco.