Medina of Marrakesh
Marrakesh 2006
Location: Marrakesh, Morocco
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (i) represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Medina of Marrakesh is a historic walled city in Morocco that dates back to the 11th century. The city is known for its labyrinthine alleyways, bustling souks, stunning palaces, and ancient mosques. It served as the capital of the Almoravid dynasty and the Saadian dynasty, and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic art and architecture. The city also holds great cultural and spiritual significance to the people of Morocco, who continue to use it for important rituals and ceremonies.
Prominent Features: The Medina of Marrakesh is home to numerous notable landmarks, including:
Jemaa el-Fnaa: The main square of Marrakesh, which is famous for its food stalls, snake charmers, and street performers. Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakesh, with a 253-foot-tall minaret that is visible from many parts of the city.
Bahia Palace: A stunning 19th-century palace with beautifully decorated rooms, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens.
Saadian Tombs: An ornate royal necropolis that dates back to the 16th century.
Majorelle Garden: A beautiful botanical garden that was designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.
History: Marrakesh was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid dynasty, and quickly became a center of trade and culture in North Africa. Over the centuries, the city was ruled by a series of dynasties, including the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty, and played a major role in the spread of Islam throughout the region. Today, the city remains an important cultural and spiritual center in Morocco.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the winding alleyways of the Medina, visit the bustling souks, and marvel at the stunning architecture and historical landmarks. The city also offers opportunities for camel rides, horse-drawn carriage tours, and visits to nearby Atlas Mountains.
(not so) Fun Fact: Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakesh, was once the site of public executions during the rule of the Almohad dynasty.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to enter the Medina of Marrakesh, although some historical landmarks charge an admission fee.
How to Reach It: By Air: Marrakesh Menara Airport is located about 4 miles southwest of the city center and serves domestic and international flights.
By Train: Marrakesh is connected to other cities in Morocco by a network of trains, including the high-speed TGV line.
By Bus: Marrakesh is also served by a network of buses that connect it to other cities and towns in Morocco.
Where to Stay: Marrakesh has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and riads to more affordable guesthouses and hostels. Some popular options include the La Mamounia, the Royal Mansour Marrakech, and the Riad Les Yeux Bleus.
Next Stop: Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (i) represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii) exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Medina of Marrakesh is a historic walled city in Morocco that dates back to the 11th century. The city is known for its labyrinthine alleyways, bustling souks, stunning palaces, and ancient mosques. It served as the capital of the Almoravid dynasty and the Saadian dynasty, and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic art and architecture. The city also holds great cultural and spiritual significance to the people of Morocco, who continue to use it for important rituals and ceremonies.
Prominent Features: The Medina of Marrakesh is home to numerous notable landmarks, including:
Jemaa el-Fnaa: The main square of Marrakesh, which is famous for its food stalls, snake charmers, and street performers. Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakesh, with a 253-foot-tall minaret that is visible from many parts of the city.
Bahia Palace: A stunning 19th-century palace with beautifully decorated rooms, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens.
Saadian Tombs: An ornate royal necropolis that dates back to the 16th century.
Majorelle Garden: A beautiful botanical garden that was designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.
History: Marrakesh was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid dynasty, and quickly became a center of trade and culture in North Africa. Over the centuries, the city was ruled by a series of dynasties, including the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty, and played a major role in the spread of Islam throughout the region. Today, the city remains an important cultural and spiritual center in Morocco.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the winding alleyways of the Medina, visit the bustling souks, and marvel at the stunning architecture and historical landmarks. The city also offers opportunities for camel rides, horse-drawn carriage tours, and visits to nearby Atlas Mountains.
(not so) Fun Fact: Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakesh, was once the site of public executions during the rule of the Almohad dynasty.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to enter the Medina of Marrakesh, although some historical landmarks charge an admission fee.
- Koutoubia Mosque: Visitors are not allowed to enter the mosque unless they are Muslim. However, non-Muslim visitors can visit the mosque's gardens and take photos of the exterior. There is no entry fee for the gardens.
- Bahia Palace: The entry fee for Bahia Palace is 70 Moroccan dirhams (about 8 USD) per person. The palace is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, every day of the week.
- Saadian Tombs: The entry fee for the Saadian Tombs is 70 Moroccan dirhams (about 8 USD) per person. The tombs are open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, every day of the week.
- Ben Youssef Madrasa: The entry fee for Ben Youssef Madrasa is 40 Moroccan dirhams (about 4 USD) per person. The madrasa is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, every day of the week.
- Jardin Majorelle: The entry fee for Jardin Majorelle is 70 Moroccan dirhams (about 8 USD) per person. The gardens are open from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm in the winter and from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the summer.
How to Reach It: By Air: Marrakesh Menara Airport is located about 4 miles southwest of the city center and serves domestic and international flights.
By Train: Marrakesh is connected to other cities in Morocco by a network of trains, including the high-speed TGV line.
By Bus: Marrakesh is also served by a network of buses that connect it to other cities and towns in Morocco.
Where to Stay: Marrakesh has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and riads to more affordable guesthouses and hostels. Some popular options include the La Mamounia, the Royal Mansour Marrakech, and the Riad Les Yeux Bleus.
Next Stop: Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
Marrakesh 2006
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Marrakesh 2006
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