Discover the little-known palaces and gardens of the imperial city of Marrakech!
Nicknamed the « red city », Marrakech is a must-see destination for lovers of history and culture. While the Medina, Jemaa el-Fna square and the Saadian tombs are a must-see, there are also some lesser-known palaces and gardens that are well worth a visit. By getting off the beaten track, you can discover a lesser-known side of Marrakech and enjoy a more unique, immersive experience. So, are you ready to explore Marrakech’s little-known palaces and gardens?
The Bahia Palace
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One of Marrakech’s most beautiful palaces, the Palais de la Bahia, will amaze you. Built by the Grand Vizier Si Moussa at the end of the 19th century, it is truly an architectural marvel! Inside, you’ll discover the sumptuous life of Moroccan sovereigns as you visit the luxurious rooms decorated with mosaics and woodwork, as well as the verdant, one-of-a-kind patios.
This masterpiece of Moroccan architecture will plunge you into the history of the sultans, as you admire the walls adorned with zelliges and sculpted plasterwork. The Palais de la Bahia is one of Marrakech’s hidden treasures, right in the heart of the medina and close to the souks, that you really shouldn’t miss!
Dar Si Said Palace & Museum
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Stroll through the lush gardens of the Dar Si Said Palace & Museum, a huge 19th-century Moroccan-style palace in the Kasbah district, just a few minutes from Jemaa El-Fna square. Formerly the residence of Si Moussa’s brother, it is now a museum of popular arts and traditions. You’ll discover a rich collection of traditional objects, including costumes, jewelry, weapons and pottery.
When you visit this museum, you’ll immerse yourself in Moroccan culture through preserved artifacts and admire the palace’s traditional architecture. The elegant patios and galleries filled withhandicrafts will transport you to another time!
Medersa Ben Youssef
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Discover one of Marrakech’s jewels of Islamic art with a visit to the Medersa Ben Youssef, one of Morocco’s oldest Koranic schools, dating back to the 14th century. Once frequented by students from all over the world, it is located in the Medina district, close to the Ben Youssef Mosque, and bears witness to the architecture of the period, with stucco and carved wood decorations.
You’ll marvel at the peaceful atmosphere, with patios adorned with mosaics and wood carvings. A visit to the Ben Youssef Medersa is a must to discover one of the most important symbols of Moroccan Islamic culture.
Dar Moulay Ali Palace
Discover the Palais Dar Moulay Ali, a hidden gem of Moroccan art and architecture in Marrakech’s Kasbah district. Formerly the residence of the royal family and then of the French consulate, this small palace has been restored to become a space dedicated to art and culture. Here, you can admire traditional Moroccan architecture and enjoy traditional hospitality in a peaceful, leafy setting.
The Palais Dar Moulay Ali is located close to the Saadian Tomb and the Royal Palace. It represents an oasis of peace and quiet, with verdant gardens, elegant patios and art exhibitions. Don’t miss this experience to discover the true essence of Marrakech!
Menara Garden
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If you’re looking for a peaceful garden to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, this is the place. This large garden, created in the 12th century, is today an iconic spot for Marrakech locals, who come here to relax at weekends.
The olive-lined paths and marble pool offer spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains. You can enjoy the peaceful, serene ambience, accompanied on your walk by the sounds of birds and a refreshing breeze that soothes the spirit. You can get there by car or cab, as it’s just a few kilometers from the Medina.
Le Cyber Parc
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This modern park, located in the Hivernage district near numerous luxury hotels, brings together modern technology and nature. It was recently created by Marrakech’s local authorities to reflect the modernity and openness of the imperial city.
Here, you can contemplate amazing facilities while enjoying nature, with well-kept green spaces and modern facilities such as free Wi-Fi and cell phone charging points. So, if you want to discover a unique place where technology and nature come together, head to Cyber Parc!
The Jnane Harti garden
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Looking for a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech? The Jnane Harti garden is the place for you. This public garden is located in the Gueliz district, and is a true haven of calm! With its vast green expanses and relaxed atmosphere, it offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Townspeople come here to relax in a magnificent setting of roses, jasmine and other fragrant flowers. The atmosphere is romantic, with narrow avenues, pools of water, majestic trees and benches to relax on. Take advantage of this oasis of tranquility to recharge your batteries and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture!
Le Jardin des Arts
Le Jardin des Arts, c’est un endroit étonnant que des artistes locaux ont créé dans le quartier de Gueliz, à Marrakech. C’est un espace dynamique qui propose régulièrement des événements culturels, des performances musicales et des ateliers artistiques : vous pourrez y découvrir la créativité marocaine et l’art contemporain, le tout dans une nature luxuriante.
Le Jardin des Arts se situe à proximité du Théâtre Royal et de la Mosquée Koutoubia. Il offre des arbres verts, des zones ombragées et de nombreuses œuvres exposées. Venez admirer les installations et les sculptures étonnantes de différents artistes tout en expérimentant la beauté de la nature !
Jardin de l’Agdal
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Si vous cherchez un havre de paix à l’écart de la ville, ne cherchez pas plus loin que le Jardin de l’Agdal. Ce magnifique jardin traditionnel marocain, le plus grand de Marrakech, a lui aussi été créé au XIIème siècle sous la dynastie almohade et est facilement accessible, situé au sud de la Médina à quelques minutes à pied des remparts de la ville.
Lorsque vous vous promenez dans les allées sinueuses du jardin, entourés de cyprès, d’oliviers et d’orangeraies, vous ressentez l’ambiance paisible qui y règne. En plus de son importance culturelle (les jardins traditionnels marocains ont été inscrits au patrimoine culturel immatériel de l’UNESCO en 2010), le Jardin de l’Agdal est un véritable trésor caché de Marrakech, offrant une expérience unique mêlant Histoire, culture, nature et architecture.
Maintenant que vous avez découvert les palais et jardins méconnus de Marrakech, pourquoi ne pas tenter l’aventure et explorer ces trésors cachés ? N’hésitez pas à partager vos propres suggestions dans l’espace commentaire ci-dessous. Alors, prêt à partir à la découverte de la ville impériale ? Qu’attendez-vous pour réserver votre prochain voyage à Marrakech ?