Djemma el Fna
It is really the heart of Marrakech, The Djemma el Fna, the large central square in Medina, the old city. You know, it’s a perfect place to grab a freshly-squeezed of orange juice during the day and a handful of dates. The Djemma el Fna at the end of the afternoon transforms into an entertainers paradise, if you’re in to juggling, music, snake charming and that sort of thing. With stalls offering more substantial fare, some snack stalls are replaced and then the square comes alive with entertainment that since medieval times hasn’t much changed.
Surrounded by cafe’s overlooking the square, if you’re tired of jostling the crowds below, in The Djemma el Fna you can just watch and relax the world go by. When you take photos of the performers, just be prepared to be asked for money and stop to watch the entertainment.
Souqs
Basically, the souqs are markets that sell everything undercover from chickens to high-quality crafts. The Marrakech souqs are considered to be among the best in Morocco, so if you like bargaining and shopping you will tremendously enjoy yourself. The souqs are a cultural experience you would not want to miss, even if you don’t like shopping. Specialize in a certain trade or good, Souqs are divided in to small areas. All of the metal workers have together their little shops clustered, as do the butchers, tailors, jewelers, spice merchants, wool dyers, carpet salesmen and more.
Located at north of the Djemma el Fna, The souqs can be a bit tricky finding your way around the narrow alleyways. In Marrakech, guides are plentiful so you can always use those services, but the part of the fun can be also getting lost in the chaos. To peek in to souqs is often more interesting where local wares are being produced, than to be taken your guide to yet another carpet shop. Just ask for directions back to the Djemma el Fna, if you get lost.
Majorelle Gardens and the Musuem of Islamic Art
French artists Louis and Jacques Majorelle, in the 1920′s created a stunning garden in the middle of Marrakech’s new town. The Majorelle gardens are filled with color plants of all sizes and shapes, fish ponds, flowers and perhaps tranquility, the most pleasing aspect. Yves Saint Laurent, the designer now owns the gardens and has also built a house on the property for himself. However, the building is the bright yellow and blue building the Marjorelles that gets most of the attention used as their studio and which now houses the Museum of Islamic Art. This museum includes some of Moroccan good examples tribal art, jeweler, carpets and pottery.
With a 2 hour lunch break from 12-2pm, The gardens and museum are open daily.
Saadian Tombs
During the 16th and 17th centuries, The Saadian dynasty ruled much of southern Morocco. These tombs created by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour for his family and himself in the late 16th century, 66 of them are buried here. In the 17th century, The tombs were sealed up rather than destroyed and in 1917 were only re-discovered. Consequently the intricate mosaic is stunning and they are beautifully preserved. The tombs are surrounded by a nice peaceful garden, despite being situated in the heart of the somewhat hectic old town (medina)
Except Tuesday, the tombs are open daily and it’s advisable to avoid the tour groups and to get there early.
The Ramparts of Marrakech
Since the 13th century, The walls of the medina have been standing and in early morning stroll make for a wonderful. The walls run for twelve miles and aach gate is a work of art in themselves. The Bab ed-Debbagh gate provides an excellent photo opportunity full of vivid colors from the dyes used and it is the entry point for the tanneries. Though It is a little smelly.
Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts)
A museum and palace in one and well worth a visit. With a lovely courtyard, The palace is beautiful and opulent in itself where you can take some pictures and just relax. The displays of museum are well laid out and include costumes, jewelery, daggers, ceramics, and other artifacts. With a couple of hours break for lunch, The museum is open daily.
Ali ben Youssef Medersa and Mosque
In the 16th century The Medersa was built by the Saadians and could house up to 900 religious students. It is beautifully preserved with the architecture and the tiny rooms where the students used to live can you explore. The mosque is adjacent to the Medersa.
El Bahia Palace
It is a wonderful example of the best Moroccan architecture, El Bahia Palace. There’s lots of arches, detail, engravings, light, and it was built as a harem’s residence that makes it even more interesting. Although the palace is closed when the royal family visits, but it is open daily with a break for lunch.
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