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Guide to Marrakech
The very name Marrakech conjures up images of an exotic, distant city, of hot desert winds blowing in from the Sahara, of magic carpets and snake charmers and of spices and perfumes brought in by camel trains. Set within the rose-coloured walls of the medina lies a reality that is not that far removed – a labyrinth of winding streets that open onto lush green gardens and dark alleyways leading to bustling souks. The focal point is the central square, the Jemaa-el-Fna, an extraordinary gathering place and the social centre of the city that at dusk offers a scene little changed since medieval times. And towering over all this is the Koutoubia mosque, the tallest building in the city, and a reminder of the importance of Islam to the lives of the city's residents.
Today, the main focus of the city continues to be the Jemaa-el-Fna, which comes to life after dark and is and a riot of enticing colour, noise and smells, with dancers, fire-eaters, acrobats, snake charmers and fortune-tellers. Rows of trestle tables are set up every evening to serve up barbecued kebabs, boiled snails, mouthwatering tajines and an array of more or less appetising other foodstuffs. Around this vast open space stretch the shadowy alleyways of the souks; a vast marketplace selling herbs and potions, carpets and candles, jewellery, spices, meat and metalwork.
Marrakech is an Islamic city in a male-dominated society, however,
Morocco is one of the more liberal Muslim countries and the government is keen to show itself as a progressive, state. King Mohammed VI is actively promoting the education of women and disadvantaged groups such as the Berbers, the indigenous population of the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech is enchantingly sited at the foot of the High Atlas
Mountains, snow-capped for much of the year in contrast to the desert heat of the city. Summers can be scorching, but winter is bright and crisp, while autumn brings delicious fresh produce into the markets and spring sees the Atlas Mountains covered in flowers.
Sightseeing - overview
Marrakech is more a city of colours, sounds and smells than of any great monuments. The labyrinth streets of the souk are an assault to the senses and they can also be very frustrating – it’s not a city to get anywhere in hurry. However, the area is surprisingly compact and part of the fun is to wander, never knowing what surprises you might stumble upon. A guide is not necessary and since the 1999 introduction of the tourist police you’re far less likely to get hassled into taking a guide – something that soured visits to Marrakech before this time. Any visit will centre on the medina and square of Jemaa-el-Fna, the heart of the city. Many of the attractions are within walking distance of the square, with the rest being just a short taxi ride away. The Koutoubia Mosque is the main place of worship in the city and entry is forbidden to non-Muslims. However, the architecture can be appreciated from the grounds, which are open to everyone. The city’s three medina-based museums, each with their own unique style, are well worth a slow meander around.
When Marrakech becomes too intense, havens of tranquillity can be
found in the many lush public and private gardens surrounding the city. Most of the main sights are very popular with tourists and suffer the problems associated with crowds, particularly around Jemaa-el-Fna and the souks, where careless tourists can be easy prey for the occasional pickpocket.
Today, the main focus of the city continues to be the Jemaa-el-Fna, which comes to life after dark and is and a riot of enticing colour, noise and smells, with dancers, fire-eaters, acrobats, snake charmers and fortune-tellers. Rows of trestle tables are set up every evening to serve up barbecued kebabs, boiled snails, mouthwatering tajines and an array of more or less appetising other foodstuffs. Around this vast open space stretch the shadowy alleyways of the souks; a vast marketplace selling herbs and potions, carpets and candles, jewellery, spices, meat and metalwork.
Marrakech is an Islamic city in a male-dominated society, however,
Morocco is one of the more liberal Muslim countries and the government is keen to show itself as a progressive, state. King Mohammed VI is actively promoting the education of women and disadvantaged groups such as the Berbers, the indigenous population of the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech is enchantingly sited at the foot of the High Atlas
Mountains, snow-capped for much of the year in contrast to the desert heat of the city. Summers can be scorching, but winter is bright and crisp, while autumn brings delicious fresh produce into the markets and spring sees the Atlas Mountains covered in flowers.
Sightseeing - overview
Marrakech is more a city of colours, sounds and smells than of any great monuments. The labyrinth streets of the souk are an assault to the senses and they can also be very frustrating – it’s not a city to get anywhere in hurry. However, the area is surprisingly compact and part of the fun is to wander, never knowing what surprises you might stumble upon. A guide is not necessary and since the 1999 introduction of the tourist police you’re far less likely to get hassled into taking a guide – something that soured visits to Marrakech before this time. Any visit will centre on the medina and square of Jemaa-el-Fna, the heart of the city. Many of the attractions are within walking distance of the square, with the rest being just a short taxi ride away. The Koutoubia Mosque is the main place of worship in the city and entry is forbidden to non-Muslims. However, the architecture can be appreciated from the grounds, which are open to everyone. The city’s three medina-based museums, each with their own unique style, are well worth a slow meander around.
When Marrakech becomes too intense, havens of tranquillity can be
found in the many lush public and private gardens surrounding the city. Most of the main sights are very popular with tourists and suffer the problems associated with crowds, particularly around Jemaa-el-Fna and the souks, where careless tourists can be easy prey for the occasional pickpocket.
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