Marrakech: A city of history
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Morocco was named after the walled city of Marrakech, which is set on a flat plain between the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the Sahara. The ramparts, 19km long and up to 9m high in places, completely encircle the medina, with magnificent gates at irregular intervals.
Marrakech was originally a staging-post on the Spice Route, and the bustle of its souks reflects its thoroughly commercial soul. On the central town square, Jemaa el-Fna, a large market gives way at sunset to snake-charmers, jugglers, performing monkeys, henna-painters, professional storytellers and every variety of street food. The minaret of the huge Koutoubia mosque, built in 1147, appears to keep a watchful eye on all this human frivolity and frailty. The main souk area is the the north, around Rue Souk el-Kebir, and here you will find all the usual suspects, metalwork, baskets, clothing and leather goods.
Beautiful green refuges on the outskirts of the city such as the Menara, Aguedal and Majorelle gardens and La Palmeraie provide a tranquil counterpoint to the general bustle and hubbub.
The 19th-century Palais Bahia, with its apartments, courtyards and gardens, gives a vivid impression of the luxurious life of a grand vizier. Opposite is another jewellers’ souk, and just to the south are the narrow streets of the Mellah, or Jewish quarter. The nearby Dar Si Saïd palace is now a museum with jewellery, pottery, carpet and clothing exhibits that provide a fascinating insight into the culture and craft of this imperial city.
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