Marrakech (Marrakesh) Travel Guide

Introduction

Marrakech is the administrative hub of southern Morocco and the second largest city in the country, after Casablanca. Along with Rabat, Meknes and Fez, Marrakech is one of four Imperial cities, and the most visited. It was founded in 1062 by Youssef bin Tachfine of the Almoravide dynasty, but it was his son that shaped much of the original Marrakech by building mosques, palaces, baths and a subterranean water system.

The city is different to many other places in Morocco in that its origins are Berber, rather than Arab. It has been influenced over the centuries by many of the Atlas tribes, and has long been known as the meeting place of southern tribesmen and Berber villagers.

The heart of the city, and what most people come to look at, is the amazing square known as Djemaa El Fna, or Jemaa-el-Fna. It is the focal point for point for entertainers like acrobats, dancers, drummers, musicians, comedians and storytellers. There is a wide range of delicacies to enjoy from the many food stalls; while the surrounding alleys and small lanes are filled with vendors selling carpets, jewellery, metalwork and exotic foods.

Marrakech has plenty of attractions to keep the visitor occupied, including some fine architectural wonders. Make sure you see the Saadian Tombs with their exquisite carvings, and the Koutoubia and el Mansour mosques. More recently, the Art Deco commercial centre of Gueliz, northwest of the city walls, has a distinct French influence.

There are frequent and comfortable trains to Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier. The bus network is a little more confusing as there are several private companies providing services to most towns and cities in Morocco.