The Magic Of Marrakech
Marrakech is one of the most visited cities in Morocco and one of the most populated. With its rich historical background, proud heritage and centuries old architecture, it is truly a city worth visiting. However, it is not for the faint hearted!
The noise and smell of Marrakech can be pretty overwhelming to first time visitors. But the sights and novelty of the experience it offers more than make up for its shortcomings.
It is better to take the trip during the cooler seasons in the months of September up to May. However, you may want to be in the area in July for the Arts Festival when the city is full to the hilt with a myriad of performers. Snake charmers, acrobats and fire dancers are just some of them. The festival also showcases the event called Fantasia where hundreds of traditionally clad men and women on horseback charge like a battalion in an ambush. It makes for a scary but thrilling sight.
Djemma el Fna, the city’s central square is one of the most famous attractions in Marrakech. It is where the way of life has remained pretty much the same since the Middle Ages (except perhaps for the number of camera-lugging tourists in the area).
Entertainers of all kinds claim their very own piece of the city square and perform hair-raising feats to the delight of tourists. Just be careful where you stop and take pictures, you might be asked for a fee of sorts. For a hassle-free experience of the lively goings-on in the plaza, take a seat in one of the many cafes overlooking the site. From there, you can enjoy the spectacle with a refreshing drink.
Just north of Djemma el Fna are the souqs or local markets. Whether you are looking for chicken feet or a precious gem, you can find almost anything in the market’s many stalls. For an even more interesting experience, do check out stands where crafts are created right before your eyes.
The Majorelle Gardens is another famous attraction. Although created only in the 1920s, it is now considered as one of the iconic Marrakech sites. The gardens provide a refreshing retreat from the chaos and noise of the city square and the souks. It features many species of plants and flowers of different shapes, sizes and colors interspersed with fish ponds all throughout the property.
Visit the beautifully preserved Saadian Tombs that date back to late 16th century. Take a relaxing stroll along its charming garden and marvel at the exquisitely crafted mosaics featured in the tombs.
For a remarkable display of Moroccan treasures, head to the Museum of Moroccan Arts at the Palais Dar Si Said where exhibits of traditional jewelry, costumes, daggers and other artifacts can be found. The palace itself is also an impressive structure of lavish designs.
Finally, a visit to El Bahia Palace should not be missed. It is interesting enough that it was built as a harem’s palace but it is also a grand example of truly Moroccan architecture with its intricate carvings and many arches.
There are several transportation options for moving around the city. Buses and taxes are plenty but you can also rent bicycles for better flexibility. Don’t pass up on the Caleche or horse-drawn carriage, an interesting experience and must be tried at least once.
