If you have a limited amount of time, then it is advisable to hire a guide through your hotel, so you can be sure of seeing the main sights. There are several attractions in and around the medina and Djemaa El Fna, but remember that non-Muslims are forbidden to enter the mosques. Tannery: tanneries in Marrakech may not be as famous as those in Fez, but they are still interesting and well worth a visit. Visitors will have a chance to watch the processes they use and the equipment that has not changed for hundreds of years. El Badi Palace: this is another popular attraction that is suitable for all of the family. The palace was built in 1578 and contains 360 rooms that were extravagantly decorated with gold, ivory, marble, precious stones and cedar wood. Unfortunately, the rooms were ransacked and the valuables taken when the capital was moved to Meknes in 1696. The opulence and grandeur has now been replaced by flocks of nesting storks. The palace ruins are the main venue for the successful National Festival of Popular Arts, an annual event that showcases traditional arts with interpretations of Moroccan plays and Berber music. Koutoubia Mosque: the imposing minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque is a city landmark and can be seen from nearly every district. The mosque was built during the 12th century and is the tallest building in Marrakech. It features some notable architecture and is worth visiting to get a closer look, although non-Muslims are not allowed inside. The mosque is surrounded by attractive gardens which are open to everyone. Djemaa El Fna (Jemaa-el-Fna): the famous square is the heart and soul of Marrakech and gives you an insight into city life back in the medieval days. Although it attracts many tourists, the atmosphere is authentic and the sights, sounds and smells have to be experienced to be believed. There are some excellent food stalls selling sumptuous Moroccan snacks, all of which are safe to eat. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars surrounding the square, where you can retreat to watch the proceedings. Majorelle Garden and Museum of Islamic Art: these beautiful gardens are a wonderful place to escape to for some peace and quiet, away from the chaos of the medina and souks. The gardens were created by the French painter Louis Majorelle in 1924, and contain numerous plants and trees as well as some attractive ponds. | 
