Dar Mawati Marrakesh

Sightseeing in Marrakesh

The Dar Mawati Marrakech is the perfect location for holidays and sightseeing in Marrakesh. All important and popular sights of the region such as the Royal Palace, the Palais de la Bahia, the Palais El Badii, the royal garden Jardins d'Agdal, the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, the famous night market and the shopping centers of the region can be reached from here in a short time.

Marrakech, also known as the "Red City" or "Pearl of the South", is one of Morocco's four royal cities alongside Fès, Meknès and Rabat. Once the capital of the Moroccan empire, the city is located in a plain north of the High Atlas Mountains, surrounded by the three rivers Tensift, Oued Rheraya and Oued Issyl. Marrakesh is still an important economic and cultural centre with many markets, mosques, gardens and palaces. One of Marrakesh's most famous sights is the medina, a densely built-up, walled medieval city from the Berber period. Among its labyrinthine alleyways are bustling souks (markets) selling traditional clothing, pottery, spices, oriental handicrafts and jewellery. The city's symbol is the Moorish minaret of the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, which can be seen for kilometres. The medina was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 together with the Agdal Gardens and the Menara Gardens. In addition to the Koutoubia Mosque from 1158, the Kasbah from the 12th century and the Medersa Ben Youssef from the 14th century are among the other important sights.

One of Marrakesh's main attractions is the ‘Djemaa el Fna’, the medieval market and executioner's square, today a lively place for oriental storytellers, snake charmers, monkey keepers and jugglers. In the new town is the botanical garden ‘Jardin Majorelle’, which impresses with its variety of plants and unique architecture. The most important museums in Marrakesh include the ‘Musée de Marrakech’ with its collection of art, ceramics and coins, the archaeological ‘Islamic Art Museum’ and the ‘Dar-Si-Said’ museum with its exhibits on Berber art and culture. Other museums worth a visit include the House of Photography, the Museum of Telecommunications, the Palmeraie Museum of Contemporary Art, the Musée de l'Art de Vivre, the Musée Boucharouite, the Musée Tiskiwin, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Bahia and El Badi palaces. The first museum for contemporary art in Morocco, the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL), opened in Marrakech in 2018.

We are happy to organise sightseeing tours for you with reputable, experienced guides!

Ben Youssef Madrasa

The Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakech, built in the 16th century during the Saadian dynasty, was one of the largest theological schools in North Africa. Known for its exquisite architecture, the madrasa features intricate mosaics, carved cedar wood, and detailed stucco work. It once housed over 900 students in small rooms arranged around a central courtyard with a fountain. The madrasa was closed in 1960 and is now a museum, offering a glimpse into Morocco's educational and religious history. It remains one of the city's most important landmarks.

Inscription Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Student's room at Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Oriental ornaments at Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Walkway at Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Courtyard of Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Rich decorated door at Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh, Morocco

Jemaa el-Fna Square

Jemaa el-Fna is Marrakech's most famous square, located at the heart of the old city (medina). It comes alive with activity, offering an exciting atmosphere filled with street performers, snake charmers, musicians, and local food stalls. During the day, it’s a bustling marketplace, but at night, it transforms into an open-air dining area where visitors can taste traditional Moroccan dishes. The square has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage due to its vibrant cultural significance and role in preserving traditional Moroccan life.

Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh, Morocco
Spice shop at Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh, Morocco
View of the Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh, Morocco

Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is one of Marrakech’s most iconic landmarks, known for its impressive minaret that rises 77 meters above the city. Built in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad dynasty, it is the largest mosque in Marrakech and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The mosque's minaret is a symbol of the city and has influenced the design of other famous minarets, such as the Giralda in Seville. While the mosque itself is not open to non-Muslim visitors, its striking architecture and surrounding gardens make it a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Top of the Koutoubia Mosque's minaret in Marrakesh, Morocco
Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco
Gate of the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco

Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace in Marrakech is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and design, built in the late 19th century. This grand palace was constructed for the grand vizier of the Sultan, Ba Ahmad, and was intended to be the most magnificent palace of its time. The palace is famous for its beautiful courtyards, intricate stucco work, painted wooden ceilings, and peaceful gardens. Visitors can explore the spacious rooms, decorated with vibrant tiles and intricate carvings, and experience the serene atmosphere that reflects the opulence of Morocco’s royal history.

Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Islamic ornament in Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Souk in Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Doorway in Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Richly decorated room in Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco

El-Badi Palace

The El-Badi Palace in Marrakech, built in the late 16th century during the reign of the Saadian dynasty, is a remarkable example of Moroccan architecture and grandeur. Once one of the most magnificent palaces in the Islamic world, it was constructed by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur to celebrate his victory in the Battle of the Three Kings. Although much of the palace is now in ruins, visitors can still admire its impressive layout, including vast courtyards, beautiful fountains, and remnants of intricate tile work. The palace also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Atlas Mountains.

El-Badi Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Gateway El-Badi Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Mosaic Floor in El-Badi Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden in Marrakech is one of the city's most enchanting and iconic landmarks. Created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle, this vibrant garden features a stunning collection of exotic plants from around the world, including cacti, palms, and bamboo. The garden is famous for its striking blue buildings, known as "Majorelle Blue," which contrast beautifully with the lush greenery. Visitors can wander through peaceful pathways, explore the tranquil water features, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The garden is also home to the Berber Museum, which showcases the art and culture of Morocco's indigenous people.

Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, Morocco
Majorelle Garden of Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakesh, Morocco
Cacti in Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, Morocco
Palm Trees in Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, Morocco
The Blue House in Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, Morocco
Pavilion in Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, Morocco

Menara Gardens

The Menara Gardens in Marrakech are a peaceful retreat located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Established in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty, the gardens feature a large reflective basin surrounded by olive groves, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The highlight is the historic pavilion, which offers stunning views of the water and distant mountains. Originally designed for irrigation, the gardens now serve as a popular spot for relaxation and leisurely walks. Their tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make them a must-visit for nature lovers.

Historical pavilion in Menara Gardens in Marrakesh, Morocco
Main walkway in Menara Gardens in Marrakesh, Morocco
Lake in Menara Gardens in Marrakesh, Morocco

Agdal Garden

Anima Garden

Bab Agnaou

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Bab Agnaou Gate in Marrakesh, Morocco

Bab Ghmat

Saadian Tombs

Atlas Mountains & Agafay desert

 

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