Vibrant, diverse Morocco is known for its Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches, high mountains, Sahara Desert, imperial cities and open-air souks. Its history and culture reflect the influence of a long succession of invaders and settlers - including the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, French, Spanish, and Arabs - as well as the presence of the Berbers, Morocco's indigenous people, who make up half of the nation's population. Morocco is also a symphony of different forms of music and dance that make it one of the most "musical" countries in the world. Essaouira, a historic town with an old fortified fishing port, hosts the world famous Gnaoua Festival of World Music.