Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a city in west-central Morocco, located near the Atlas Mountains. It is one of the country’s four Imperial Cities, along with Fez, Meknes, and Rabat. The city was founded in the 11th century by Abu Bakr ibn Umar. The Medina of Marrakech, the ancient core of the city, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

A Center of Culture, Education, and Tourism

Marrakech is an important hub for education, the economy, and tourism. It is known for its numerous hotels, parks, gardens, bazaars, palaces, monuments, mosques, handicrafts, olives, desserts, and street food. The city is home to Cadi Ayyad University and hosts the annual Marrakech International Film Festival. The region is served by Marrakesh Menara International Airport and Marrakesh Railway Station.

The Red City: Architectural Identity of Marrakech

Marrakech is often called the “Red City” because beaten clay was the primary building material during the Almohad era, giving the city its distinctive reddish appearance.

Menara Gardens: A 12th-Century Oasis

The Menara Gardens (حدائق المنارة), located at latitude 31.6143841 and longitude -8.0229646, are a stunning botanical complex featuring an artificial lake. Dating back to the 12th century, the gardens, together with the Agdal Gardens and the Medina of Marrakech, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Koutoubia Mosque: Icon of Marrakech

Koutoubia Mosque (جامع الكتبية), situated at lat 31.623724 and long -7.9937839, is one of the city’s most significant landmarks. Built in the 12th century and founded by Abd al-Mu’min, it is a masterpiece of Moorish and Moroccan architecture. Its 77-meter-high minaret is one of the symbols of Marrakech. The site also features beautiful gardens with palm trees, flowers, and a fountain.

Menara Mall: Modern Shopping Center

Menara Mall (منارة مول), located at lat 31.6186742 and long -8.0092859, is one of Marrakech’s largest shopping centers. With five floors filled with shops and restaurants, it stands next to the Savoy Le Grand Hotel Marrakech.

Marrakech Museum: Art and History in a Historic Palace

The Marrakech Museum (متحف مراكش الاثري), at lat 31.6315913 and long -7.9863434, is housed in a historic palace and is among the city’s major attractions. Opened in 1997, it exhibits ceramics, jewelry, coins, and contemporary artworks.

El Badi Palace: A Once-Magnificent Saadian Masterpiece

El Badi Palace (قصر البديع), located at lat 31.6183111 and long -7.9860362, was constructed between 1578 and 1593 in Moorish and Saadian architectural styles. Today it is a ruined palace, further affected by the September 2023 earthquake. The site features an exhibition area showcasing historical artifacts, including the Minbar of the Koutoubia Mosque.

Other Notable Attractions in Marrakech

Other points of interest in Marrakech include Jemaa el-Fnaa, Bab Agnaou, Majorelle Garden, the Ben Youssef Mosque, and the Saadian Tombs.