M O R R O C O
M A R R A K E C H
O V E R V I E W
Morocco, Berber for “Land of God”, sits nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Its capital Marrakech blends the ancient with the contemporary, with striking labyrinths of red clay alleys, and meditative rooftop gardens offering a uniquely north-African look at the world.
Here is an ideal place to start exploring the cultural, historical, and natural splendour of this colourful nation.
Here's what we think should form the core of your experience:
HISTORY & SIGHTS
Founded in 1070 by the Almoravid Dynasty, Marrakech quickly became a religious, political, and economic center in Morocco. Over the centuries, it thrived under the rule of several dynasties, each leaving a distinct mark.
With four primary languages spoken: French, Arabic, Berber, and Spanish, multicultural influences culminating in sights like the Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace reveal the depth of history that is comes together as the past and present join.
ART & FASHION
Fashion lovers will know that legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent fell in love with Marrakech in the 1960s (and after visiting, you will too). In the city’s center, you will find Musée Yves Saint Laurent, which showcases the designer’s life’s work.
However, we would argue that the most charismatic expressions of the state of art in Marrakech will be found as you will visit the many masterfully designed mosques, palaces, and gardens that have filled up the city over the centuries.
There is a particular design language to Marrakech which is unmistakable.
CUISINE
With its mix of Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and Mediterranean cultures, Moroccan cooking uses a rich combination of grains and spices—saffron, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and harissa, just to name a few.
Although nothing is ever as simple as it seems on the surface, there are two truly standout dishes in Moroccan cuisine, which you’ll find ubiquitous in their availability. These are the tagine, which is as much a style of cooking as a dish itself, and beautiful, freshly baked Moroccan breads.
Whether you indulge in a simple lamb version from a street food stall or a more upscale tagine at a lovely restaurant, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore the favourite (perhaps unavoidable is also accurate) national dish, with many variations featuring wonderful locally-grown olives, preserved lemons and dried fruits, and all sorts of meat and fish and vegetables.