How I lived the Allure of Marrakesh

The name Marrakesh originates from the Berber word “Amur Kush” – Land of God. Also the Berber word “Murakush”

The Red City, or “Ochre City” with its Persian Red walls, the Medina at its core, appears like a sudden mirage. The area is cradled by the Atlas mountains and the Sahara desert in the distance.

Marrakesh is also called, “A city full of promise.”

Did Marrakesh keep its promise of exotic wonders? Or is it all a mirage that disappears at the horizon?

Long before we left, planning the itinerary for this trip was different. We felt a vibe of anticipation to visit the city with a certain mystique. Questions of what to visit, what choice of hotels, where to look for local fashion inspiration, made for lively conversations.

What would the local vibe be?

The prospect of walking through the foreign Souks felt exciting. I could hardly wait to see the local architecture, historic sites, taste new foods, meet different people, or mingle with locals at cafés.

When we landed in Marrakesh in the desert kingdom, I was surprised by the modern Islamic inspired architecture of Menara Airport. The bright afternoon sun captured the contours of secondary metal façades, a screen that shields the buildings from the hot sun. Almost as a modern defense against intrusion.

As I walked into the Arrival hall, I looked up at a soaring glass ceiling that seems to open toward the sky.

Huge round suspended steel rings appeared to dance above.

The city of Marrakesh set against the backdrop of the Atlas mountain range felt oddly familiar to me. The ribs of the mountains looked similar to the San Jacinto mountains in the Coachella Valley. Yet, the faded reddish walls of many buildings and the architecture were distinctly Marrakesh.

The drive through La Ville Nouvelle, Gueliz, the new town, took us past the Anima Gardens, through Bab Ksiba, past the Royal Palace, into the heart of the Medieval Medina.

Inside the Medina, Moorish inspired and Berber style architecture exists among newer buildings. I could hardly wait to discover the gardens, squares, and historic palaces.

Grand former homes, called a Dar, sit along wide Boulevards lined by palms or olive trees. Many Dars have now become inviting hotels.

Other former homes, hidden behind nondescript Ochre colored stucco walls deep inside the Medina, are now transformed into inviting Riads.

A Riad, is a Guesthouse with a central garden. Former homes that have been lovingly restored, often by expat owners, offer a new interpretation of contemporary Marrakesh style laced with Oriental hospitality.

We stayed at the lovingly restored Riad Karmela, and her adjacent property the Karmela Princess. Hidden deep in the Souk in the Azbezt area, Riad Karmela offers calm serenity within its interior court by day.

At sunset, a stunning roof top patio with views of the close-by mosque turned into an enchanted spot to chat with fellow guests.

Have a drink, let the evening unfold under the canopy of the Moorish tent.

The ramparts, the old red walls, guard the ancient buildings and palaces of the Medina. By day, the public spaces, inside their walls, dazzle visitors with colorful displays of things, a world of visual overload.

As the day winds down the Medina becomes quiet. There is a private world hidden behind its high walls, one that welcome guests into Oriental hospitality. After sunset, visitors can feel at home in a Riad. Candles are lit, the aroma of incense fills the air, illuminated courtyards offer refuge among luscious plants, soft cushions and vibrant Kilim rugs.

Just as Morocco is called the gateway to Africa, the Medina, is the gateway into the heart of Marrakesh.

We were able to feel the heart of Marrakesh inside the Medina.

Amur Kush – Land that holds the promise.

Did Marrakesh keep its promise of exotic wonders?

On our first day here, we found a place full of unfamiliar surroundings, mystique and grandeur. Stories of a rich past tie in with the promise of a vibrant lifestyle today.

Up to us to discover more.

More to see in Marrakesh. Lush gardens, historic palaces, fabulous hotels, vibrant souks.

Follow my next posts.

more information: infostourismemaroc.com,