Marrakesh my Favourite Spots

 

                                                            Koutoubia Mosque ©Solange Hando

The heart of Marrakesh is the Koutoubia Mosque, first built in the 12th century and beautifully renovated in 1997. Rising to 77 metres, the minaret can be seen from 25km away on a clear day.

The mosque is only open to worshippers but the lofty silhouette captures your gaze in the bright sunshine or in the late afternoon light when the the sweet fragrance of orange blossom lingers all around.

                                                                       Djemaa el Fna ©Solange Hando

Close to the Koutoubia, this is the main square, the place to enjoy a freshly squeezed citrus juice, dried fruit and nuts, and so much more. Fabulous in the evening with acrobats, drummers and dancers, card readers, food stalls, story tellers, snake charmers, it's colours, sounds and smells, a scene from the Arabian Nights.

Next to the square the medina tempts you with all sorts of local crafts, carved wood, copper, jewellery, babouches, textiles, leather, carpets and rugs..., plenty of time to bargain as you enjoy a free glass (or two) of mint tea.

                                                                  Majorelle Garden ©Solange Hando

Designed by French artist Majorelle, this 'blue oasis' took 40 years to complete and was later restored by Yves St Laurent. Trees and plants come from all over the world, colour, fragrance and enticing water features with myriad reflections.

The artist's former villa is now a Berber museum, showcasing heritage and tradition in a stunning setting. Take time to relax and enjoy as wagtails and turtledoves call from their favourite spots. 

                                                                       Bahia Palace ©Solange Hando

Close to the Atlas and indeed the desert, Marrakech is a must-see for its fabulous architecture as seen in this Bahia Palace where blue remains the favourite colour. Partly open to visitors, this vast palace was only created in the late 19th century, illustrating the perfect harmony between Andalusian and Moorish styles.

Water and reflections aside, look out for mosaics, carved cedar wood, arabesques and stucco work. See the marble courtyard and landscaped garden.

                                                                         El Badi ©Solange Hando

Outside the medina, these are the remains of the 'Incomparable Palace', built for the local sultan in 1578. Little is left of the original 360 rooms but this is a quiet atmospheric place where in season you might spot the 'auspicious' storks rattling their beaks on the battlements.

Wild flowers, roses and orange trees grow in the sunken garden but best of all I love the sandstone walls, glowing ochre-coloured in the African sun.

                                                               Menara Gardens ©Solange Hando

                         Escape from it all in this historic public garden and orchard listed by UNESCO.