Explore Marrakech, a captivating and trendy city with a rich historical legacy. Once the capital of Morocco, Marrakech lends its name to the nation itself. Founded in 1071 by the Almoravid Berber Sultan Youssef Ben Tachfine, and originally named “Amur Akouch” (God’s Land in Tamazight), Marrakech holds deep cultural roots. Its history spans centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of powerful dynasties, including the Almohads, Merinides, Saadians, and the current Alaouites. Discover the historical significance and cultural heritage of Marrakech, a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
Morocco’s most iconic city, renowned for its rich history and cultural allure. Since the early 20th century, Marrakech has captivated global figures, including Winston Churchill, who frequented the legendary Hotel La Mamounia. This historic hotel has also hosted numerous heads of state, particularly during the city’s pleasant winter and spring seasons. Fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent further cemented Marrakech’s artistic legacy, acquiring a stunning residence in the 1960s. He later restored the vibrant Jardin Majorelle, named after Orientalist painter Jacques Majorelle, famous for his signature “Bleu Majorelle.” Today, the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum stands as an architectural masterpiece, celebrating his profound connection to Marrakech. Explore the cultural landmarks and historical significance of Marrakech, a top destination for luxury travel and art tourism in Morocco.
As the tourist capital of Morocco, it is the most visited city of the Kingdom. Tourists, but also dwellers of Casablanca and Rabat love going to Marrakesh, some to sunbathe and play golf, others to enjoy the surrounding nature, or simply to taste the gentle way of life of the city. Its medina, although a victim of its own success which has reinforced the phenomenon of gentrification, remains authentic, where everyone lives in their own way; the storytellers, medicinal plant merchants and other snake charmers of Jamaa El Fna square are not only there for the tourists; they are also there for the enjoyment of the locals, the Marrakchis, who know what they owe to those who pass on traditions.
Not far from the square stands the Koutoubia, one of the most beautiful mosques in the Muslim world, which served as a model for the Giralda Mosque in Seville. Don’t hesitate to also visit some of the palaces, first of all, the El Badii (“the incomparable”) palace, built by the Almohad Sultan Yacoub el Mansour or the Bahia palace, built at the end of the 19th century.
Marrakesh encompasses a specific way of life, combining authenticity and a taste for celebration, tinged with a “jet set” atmosphere that has made the reputation of the place; in Marrakesh people dine late in the evening and go out even later. But the next day, one can decide to take a walk in the surroundings and find the calm and serenity of a welcoming setting, in the Ourika Valley for example, or higher up towards Oukaïmeden, the main ski resort of Morocco at 2,600 m altitude. In Marrakesh, you can play golf in the morning and ski in the afternoon. And going out at night in the city’s many restaurants, some run by starred chefs.
