It can feel easy to get lost here, but don’t pay an eager local to show you round - you might get more than you bargained for! Google Maps works fine in the Medina and will save you time and money.
Medina means simply ‘city’ or ‘town’ in Arabic - in North African cities, it refers to a distinct old quarter of the town, usually walled, holding a maze of narrow streets. Marrakech’s is ancient, extensive and particularly special, containing a millennium of history within its walls; it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
Koutoubia Mosque, the symbol of the city and an icon of its skyline, dominates the Medina with its 77 metre minaret. A stone’s throw away, the bustling square of Djemaa El Fna offers delicious food and local entertainment.
Bahia Palace, built in the 19th century, captures the essence of Islamic style; the much older (and ruined) palace of El Badi lives up to its name of ‘the Incomparable.’ The 500 year old Saadian Tombs, only uncovered in the last century, reveal funerary marble worthy of the sultanate. Ben Youssef Medersa, a stunningly ornamented place of learning, welcomes visitors with the inscription ‘You who enter my door, may your highest hopes be exceeded’ - and it’s been doing a good job for around 600 years.
The Medina is not only the heart of Marrakech, but of Morocco itself. Founded around 1070 AD by the Almoravids, Marrakech has long been the most important city in Morocco - the country is even named after it. Virtually unmatched in its concentration of beautiful and historic buildings, a marvel awaits round every corner of the Medina, and a trip to Marrakech would be incomplete without exploring its magical streets.
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