First-time visitors to Marrakesh often get lost in the maze of streets and shops. But that is not a bad thing, as each turn offers a new cultural experience, from sharing conversation over tea with a carpet vendor to avoiding a collision with a donkey cart. Founded in the 11th century, Marrakesh visitors experience the city through its neighborhoods, landmark buildings and tranquil parks.
The city's main square, Jemaa El Fna, comes alive at dusk, with swarms of storytellers, snake-charmers and magicians. Beyond the square lies the medina, a web of winding, intertwining streets with shopkeepers hawking their goods. Twelfth century fortifications surround the market area, or souk, where conversations between sellers and buyers have gone on for centuries. Besides stalls selling foodstuffs and fabrics, visitors may find local handicrafts. Nearby, the old Jewish quarter or mellah was established in 1558. At the time, Jews were not allowed to own property outside the sector, so they built up instead of out, creating unique tunnel-like streets.
The square minaret at Koutoubia Mosque soars more than 220 feet above the Marrakesh skyline and is visible throughout the city. Built in the 12th century, the mosque is the city’s signature landmark. While non-Muslims cannot visit the interior, all visitors are invited to view its architecture characterized by arches and geometric designs. Although no longer decorated with marble and gold, the ruins of the 16th century Badi Palace invite visitors to explore its courtyard and rooms, once estimated to be more than 300. Of special interest is the restored prayer pulpit, or Koutoubia minbar, with steps inlaid with gold and silver calligraphy. Visitors can still see opulence at the 19th century Bahia Palace, especially in rooms occupied by the palace harem. Painted rose bouquets decorate the ceiling and woven silk panels line the walls. Nearby, sultans and princes occupy their final resting places at Saadian Tombs. One mausoleum features the Hall of the Twelve Columns, with tombs illuminated by an ornate lantern.
Originally grand palaces, Marrakesh museum buildings are landmarks in their own right. At the Marrakesh Museum, an open atrium surrounded by columns greets visitors. The galleries feature Moroccan art, from paintings and photography to ceramics. Some pieces are displayed in the palace's restored hammam, a steam bath room. The Dar Si Said Museum was a 19th century palace. In one salon, an intricately carved cedar ceiling looks over ancient artifacts such as a 1,000 year-old marble basin. Other exhibits include carpets, musical instruments and Berber cloth, a textile made with wool woven into large, uneven looped designs. A Dutch historian collected Marrakesh artifacts which are now housed in the Bert Flint Museum. The collection includes jewelry, textiles and art.
Tourists often follow locals to escape the hustle and bustle of the medina for the tranquility of one of Marrakesh’s gardens. Olive groves frame the distant snow-capped Atlas Mountains at Jardin Menara, a picturesque respite. A pool and green-tile pavilion add to the ambiance. Jardin el Harti, a garden featuring flowers and bougainvillea, is one of the few parks in the city with a playground. The botanical garden at Jardin Majorelle is named after the French artist, Jacques Majorelle. He favored strong colors and contrasts, reflected in the gardens green cacti, palms and bright-colored flowers. His artwork is on display at a small museum in the park, and an on-site cafe serves tea and Moroccan favorites like couscous.
