From the tenth century to the mid-eleventh century, Morocco was ruled by a Berber empire called the Almoravid Dynasty. Then, it was ruled by the Almohad Berber Dynasty until the middle of the twelfth century. Both empires influenced the culture and built many buildings and structures that still exist today. From the thirteenth century to the mid-seventeenth century, the Merinid Dynasty controlled Morocco, followed by the Saadian Dynasty. From 1666 to the present, Morocco has been ruled by the Alawite Dynasty. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Morocco became a protectorate of France and Spain. This means France and Spain protected and controlled Morocco. The French protectorate created modern buildings and industries and developed communications and agriculture. In 1956, Morocco became independent. The Kingdom of Morocco Today The historical difficulties in Morocco are seen in its desert fortresses and heavily protected palace walls. The use of bright colors is common everywhere in Morocco, with mud buildings and large archways. Morocco has kept its traditions and ancient architecture, some dating back to 110 BCE. It has become an important center of trade and commerce.