~ Marrakech ~
Marrakech, known also as the Red City because of its dusty terracotta architecture, is the most important touristic destination in Morocco. Its name is derived from the Berber words, “mur (n) akush” meaning “Land of God”, a proper title for an imperial metropolis with a rich and glorious past, situated within reach of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the white-sand beaches of Essaouira.
The old city of Marrakech (the medina), part of the UNESCO patrimony, is home to winding, narrow alleys, numerous mosques (among which the largest one is Koutoubia), the El Badi Palace (a Saadian imperial residence) , the fresh Menara gardens, the Ben Youssef Madrasah (disputably the most beautiful building in the area and a perfect example of Islāmic architecture), and last, but not least, Marrakech houses Djemaa El Fna, the largest and most chaotic square on the continent, stamping ground for a vibrant mass of dancers, musicians, magicians, snake charmers, and countless booths selling delicious food.
I grew up reading and enjoying Scheherazade’s one thousand and one stories and after looking at photos from the area for more than a week, I believe that Marrakech would make the perfect place to visit in order to start believing in magic.
Stay: Kasbah Bab Ourika (to counterbalance the sensory overload of the city); Heure Bleue Palais (when in Essaouira)
Eat: harira (lamb, lentil and chickpea soup), kefta (spicy minced lamb), kebabs and merguez (spicy sausage), sweetened mint tea at Mamounia, Café des Livres, Al Fassia or Djemaa El Fna food stalls
See: Koutoubia, El Badi Palace, Menara gardens, Djemaa El Fna, Ben Youssef Madrasah, Essaouira, Ouzoud waterfall
~ Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech ~
~ El Badi Palace, Marrakech ~
~ Menara Gardens, Marrakech ~
~ Djemaa El Fna, Marrakech ~
~ Colorful Spices, Marrakech ~
~ Ben Youssef Madrasah, Marrakech ~
~ Kasbah Bab Ourika ~
~ Essaouira ~
~ Erg Chebbi ~
Until next time,
Bodhi.
