Marrakesh, the Pearl of the South

A must-see in Morocco, this city is known for its charm, rich culture and unbridled nightlife. 

Situated at the foot of the majestic Atlas Mountains, this ancient city combines age-old traditions with modernity to offer an unforgettable experience.

It is also known for its truly fascinating history; the city of Marrakech was founded in 1062 by the founder of the Almoravid dynasty, Youssef Ibn Tachfine.

Throughout Marrakech’s history, as the capital of a series of dynasties, the city has left its mark on architecture. The adobe walls that once enveloped the city are perhaps Marrakesh’s most famous architectural feature.

But the heart of Marrakech is undoubtedly the medina – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this labyrinth of winding streets is packed with architectural treasures, bustling souks and picturesque nooks and crannies. The central Jemaa el-Fna square is home to storytellers, musicians, snake charmers and street food vendors…

I also visited the souks of Marrakech. The streets of the city’s ‘fairground’ are alive with colour and attract tourists from all over the world. Any stall in the souks is an object of desire – here you can buy the most incredible spices, the most exquisite Berber carpets, the most original jewellery and the most sophisticated bags and leather goods. Each souk has its own speciality – the dyers’ souk, the jewellers’ souk, the ironmongers’ souk and much more.

What I also appreciated was that Marrakech has historic sites and emblematic monuments that tell the story of its history and past. 

As you know, I am sensitive to history when choosing my destinations.

During my trip to Marrakech, I visited a number of monuments, some of which are listed below:

The Koutoubia mosque, with its 77-metre-high minaret, is one of the city’s most emblematic sites and a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. 

I also visited the Bahia Palace. This palace was built in the 19th century and is a striking example of traditional Moroccan architecture, with its zellige-decorated patios and gardens.

I also fell under the spell of the Majorelle garden: the botanical garden and former property of Yves Saint Laurent is a peaceful place with its bright, soothing colours; here you can contemplate a host of exotic plants and buildings in Arab-Andalusian architectural styles.

You are also invited to visit the Marrakech Museum, housed in a former palace and packed with collections of Moroccan art, manuscripts and historical artefacts.

I also discovered the New Town: Gueliz and l’Hivernage. Marrakech is not just the medina. The modern districts, including Gueliz and l’Hivernage, are a great contrast. 

Gueliz is the economic and commercial centre of Marrakech, with its brand-name shops, diverse art and design galleries, modern and noisy cafés.

The Hivernage is home to five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, spectacular nightclubs and prestigious bars. 

To get a better idea of this magical destination, you absolutely must try the local cuisine, especially the tajine: a kind of traditional stew simmered at a low temperature that can be varied endlessly, or of course the couscous: practically a hymn to Friday, the neutral day, idol of budding musicians, made up of fine couscous grains served with cooked vegetables and pieces of meat.

And don’t forget the Moroccan pastries: gazelle horns, chebakia, almond briouates followed by the famous mint tea.

In a nutshell, it’s a city of well-being and leisure, a real city of traditional hammams, top-of-the-range spas offering a wealth of natural products such as argan, ghassoul and rose water, and many others. 

A real pleasure for a woman!

Marrakech is also known for its international golf courses, with great views of the Atlas Mountains for golfers.

Taking a walk in the Agafay desert or the Atlas mountains is one of the most unforgettable experiences. In addition, activities such as riding in a hot-air balloon at sunrise or on a dromedary are the best way to discover Marrakech and the surrounding area.

Marrakech, a city of art and culture. For some years now, Marrakech has also been a cultural capital. The Marrakech International Film Festival attracts teams of stars from all over the world, but surprisingly many artists and designers feel inspired by Marrakech. The city has contemporary art galleries and more alternative venues where creative artists work together.

Marrakech is both a city and an atmosphere, a destination to be recommended to anyone who really wants to get to know Morocco and its people. 

The red city will enchant you with its authenticity and simplicity as much as with its luxury and adventure. Marrakech combines the best of both worlds, whatever the traveller’s tastes, and it’s a safe bet that time will rarely be a consideration when leaving this colourful and unique place. I recommend that you visit Marrakech. 

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