Top 5 Reasons to Visit Marrakech
There are many reasons why you should visit Marrakech. Listed below are a few of them. You can’t go to this city without visiting the gardens at the Jardin Majorelle, the Bahia Palace, and the Mellah bathhouses. There’s so much more to see in this amazing city! So, read on to find out the top reasons why you should visit Marrakech!
Jardin Majorelle
If you have never been to Morocco, then you’ll want to visit the Jardin Majorelle, an architectural masterpiece that was designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Saved from the wrecking ball and the looming construction of a hotel, this museum features a curated collection of the native people of North Africa. There’s also a museum dedicated to the Berber people, a café, and a boutique gift shop.
Visit Marrakech: The Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is a beautiful piece of architecture in Marrakech. It was built for the Grand Vizier Si Moussa in the late 1800s. The architecture is reminiscent of the architecture of Grenada’s Alhambra and hints of Moorish and Andalusian influences. It is a beautiful structure to wander through and admire the intricate details and arabesques that adorn its walls.
The Mellah
The Jewish Quarter of Marrakech is a place of intense cultural and religious significance. Established in 1438, this quarter was the first Jewish district in Morocco. It was designed to protect the Jewish people and isolate them from the rest of the city. However, it was not long before rebels destroyed it. Most of the city’s Jewish citizens were massacred by the rebels in 1465, leaving only a few Jews living in the Mellah today. Still, visitors can enjoy the architecture, tour the 17th century synagogue, and wander the 400-year-old Jewish cemetery.
Visit Marrakech: The Mellah bathhouses
The Mellah bathhouses are located in a former Jewish Quarter known for its hammams. The area was first established by the Saadian Sultanate in the mid-16th century. They have been popular with tourists ever since. Today, you can relax in the hot water while you watch the people around you enjoy their soak. You can also spend some time at the Photography Museum, which is open daily from 09:30 until 19:00.
The Souks
If you want to experience a typical Moroccan souk, the atmosphere can be disorienting. The streets are tight and full of movement. As you wander around the streets, you’ll likely encounter locals who are quick to give you directions. When in doubt, ask a shopkeeper for directions. The best way to get a map of the souks is to take pictures of overhead signs and corners. The streets are narrow, so be alert and prepared to jump out of the way when necessary. Also, don’t buy anything on your first visit. Instead, wander through and try to get a feel for the pace of life in the city.
