Taking a closer look into Marrakech – one of the most famous cities of Morocco
Marrakech is an enigmatic city that provides you with a dynamic experience like no other. Its mysterious medina is a tangle of beautiful gardens, crowded squares, otherworldly palaces, fragrant souks and intricate riads that spring the “Red city” into life.
Marrakech is the fourth-largest city in Morocco. It is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco and is the capital of the Marrakesh–Safi region. As for the “Red city” nickname, it comes from the red clay that was used by the Almohads to build the city’s distinctively rosey buildings. The city lies west of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains that surround it, offering a stunning view of the snowy mountain peaks in the distance.
History through gardens
If there’s something that truly defines Marrakech’s appeal it is its history. The Jardin Majorelle is a great example of this. This garden shows the love for the city that inspired Yves Saint Lauren and his work. Today, this colorful and one-of-a-kind garden is joined by a stellar museum that’s dedicated to YSL’s life and work. The legacy that he left behind is now treated as one of the main trademarks of this wonderful city.
A must-visit that combines both nightlife and delicious food is the Lotus Club in Marrakech
Luckily, if you’re a fan of exploring peculiar and exotic nature landmarks, you can continue on to the Iconic Menara Gardens in the western part of the city. These gardens are monumentally big, extending over an area of a 100 hectares. At the beginning of the 12th century, the Almohad decorated it with long rows of olive trees. Many locals go to these parks as well for a picnic or a walk. The most beautiful part of this green space is the lake, which is presided over by a pavilion. The pavilion was built by the sultan Sidi Mohammed ibn Abdallah and it’s believed that this is where the sultans met their companions.
The Marrakech Medina and its people
The energy of Marrakech truly shines when you get to witness its people and their hospitality. To do so look no further than the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the main square and the most important part of the medina. This square serves as a gathering place for inhabitants and tourists both during the day and night to have something to eat, to shop at the souks or to observe various shows that are taking place. You’ll come across artisans that have hammered their mark on everything from local fashion to pottery, jewelry and lighting over the centuries. You’ll also run into hard-working locals that will do their best to interest you in their authentic Moroccan products. Considering how vast the square is, filled to the brim with sellers and markets, you’ll find yourself lost exploring all the little intricacies that Marrakech has to offer.
If you ever get lost in the city, all locals will tell you the same thing, just follow the Koutoubia Mosque, which can be seen from any part of the town.
If you find yourself to be at the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, you might as well visit the Museum of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Marrakech. The museum offers visitors the opportunity to discover the history of the square in the ochre city. Designed in harmony with the building that houses it, the museum unveils a numismatic section, a tribute to Bank Al Maghrib and the personnel who worked there. Two masterpieces by Jacques Majorelle, which illustrate in detail the daily scenes of this place, are exhibited, as well as paintings by renowned artists who have marked Moroccan painting in general and local painting in particular.
If you ever get lost in the city, all locals will tell you the same thing, just follow the Koutoubia Mosque, which can be seen from any part of the town. Located near the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, this mosque is one of the most important symbols of Marrakech and It is used for daily prayers and for special religious ceremonies. It is an important example of Almohad architecture and of Moroccan mosque architecture generally and it is the largest mosque in the city.
The most impressive display of Moroccan architecture and design has to the Bahia Palace. It was built in the late 19th century and it’s a branching complex of courtyards, gardens and rooms that are full of details and vibrant colors. The Bahia Palace was built in 1894 by Si Moussa, the Grand Vizier of Sultan Moulay Hassan I. It was intended to be a luxurious residence for the Grand Vizier and his family. You’ll witness spaces decorated with traditional Moroccan furniture and artwork, with gardens and courtyards that are populated with lush plants and flowers.
Unique and colorful cuisine
If you’re a fan of trying new foods, with spices you’ve never heard of before and recipes you weren’t aware of, Marrakech is the perfect place. This is definitely a city that caters to food lovers. Whether you want to try out traditional Moroccan food or maybe rather modern takes on their usual cuisine, Marrakech has got you covered.
If you prefer having a lunch on a sunny rooftop that gives you a wonderful view of the whole city, you must visit the La Sultana restaurant. La Sultana offers contemporary and innovative cuisine to celebrate culinary journeys around two seasonal menus: French inspirations & fine Moroccan cuisine. They share the taste of heritage Moroccan products like the Saffron from Taliouine, some salt from Zerradoune, cumin from Alnif and Argan from Souss.
The Bahia Palace was built in 1894 by Si Moussa, the Grand Vizier of Sultan Moulay Hassan I. It was intended to be a luxurious residence for the Grand Vizier and his family.
As for the evening, the restaurants in Marrakech are as alive as its streets. The Safran by Koya restaurant offers a well-preserved and comfortable space with high-quality products and authentic cuisine. Not only are the chefs doing an amazing job with preparing the most innovative dishes, but the traditional dancers and entertainment add on to the experience as well, making your visit to the restaurant a night to remember.
A must-visit that combines both nightlife and delicious food is the Lotus Club in Marrakech as well. Located in the heart of the Hivernage district, it is housed in a 1930s villa. While you enjoy the mouthwatering flavors & experimental dining coming together, you’ll be in for a treat with an unforgettable nightlife experience in Marrakech. You’ll be amazed by incredible talents, ranging from circus artists and dancers to talented musicians and singers.
Marrakech is a wonderful city that provides you with so much entertainment, history and hospitality that will blow any tourist away. The surreal atmosphere that this city has is more than breathtaking. Whether it’s the people, the landmarks or the wonderful stories behind every corner of the city, Marrakech is a captivating place and an experience to remember for the rest of your life.
Red city nickname comes from the red clay that was used by the Almohads to build the city’s distinctively rosey buildings
