Marrakech, one of the former imperial cities of Morocco, is the second largest city in the country and is the capital of Marrakech-Tensift-el-Haouz, the mid-southwestern region of Morocco located at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. It is also known as the ‘Red City’ because of the red colored earth used in the constructions in Marrakech. Médina is the old fortified city in Marrakech while the adjacent city of Gueliz is its modern counterpart. Marrakech can be reached from Europe and the Arab countries via the Menara International Airport, besides the city is accessible via the motorway, railway, coaches and special tour buses.
The city does not have so much as historical attractions but it is its vibrant souks (traditional market places) that are a major drawing force here. The main city square, the Djemaa el Fna, is the most lively squares not only in Marrakech, but in the whole of Africa. During the daytime, the square turns into a performing ground for acrobats, dancers, story-tellers and musicians while at night the square is transformed into the most bustling open air restaurant with numerous food stalls brightly lit and serving the most sumptuous delights. The delightful aroma of traditional Moroccan cuisines that wafts through the air can make anyone hungry.
Lying adjacent to the Djemaa el Fna are the many souks that sell almost everything. It is great fun to walk the alleyways here and explore these colorful souks that sell a most interesting array of items. The Koutoubia Mosque besides the Djemaa el Fna is a significant mosque in the city and also a city landmark in Marrakech. The Saadian Tombs of the Saadian rulers are still preserved in their original glamour with beautiful Moroccan tile work all of which remained untouched for several hundred years. In comparison the El Badi Palace, the royal palace, is in ruins, but it does have some underground passageways that one can explore.
The Majorelle Gardens in Gueliz is an exquisite park with an assortment of exotic plant species from across the globe. Dar Si Saïd Museum, which is a five minutes drive from the Djemaa el Fna, houses the most amazing collection of artifacts from different Moroccan eras. Ben Youssef Madrassa, a part of the Ben Youssef Mosque, is one of the largest religious institutions in North Africa. The ornate El Bahia Palace is also worth paying a visit. Those visiting Marrakech also make it a point to visit the nearby valleys of the Ourika River and the Draa River, Essaouira and the Middle Atlas Mountains to view the Beni Mellal waterfalls. The local inhabitants are a very friendly and hospitable race.
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Photo by Rafael Noe provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
