Hello to all the members of the Hive community,
In the middle of Marrakech's medina, I spent some time yesterday discovering a historic artefact. Starting my walk while the weather was still mild, I was able to escape the hectic pace of the red city and enjoy a leisurely stroll through its bustling streets.
Near the Saadian tombs, I first visited the Moulay Yazid mosque. The scaffolding surrounding this historic monument reminded me of the importance of protecting these artefacts, which are currently being restored.
Next door, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in history by visiting the Saadian tombs. As soon as I set foot inside, a heavy air settled over the place. These historic sites fascinate me because of the stories the corners seem to whisper about the sultans and their families. Slender marble columns, exquisitely carved domes and incredibly fine Koranic friezes cover the walls: the architecture is truly stunning. The highlight of the visit is a stop at the Hall of the Twelve Columns, the last residence of the great Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour, who ruled Morocco from 1578 to 1603. With his ambition and refinement, this visionary monarch left his mark on the history of Morocco, he was nicknamed Addahbi, meaning ‘the Golden One’, due to the fortune he had acquired through the gold trade. These tombs are an ideal representation of the cultural and architectural splendour that Marrakech experienced during his reign.
As soon as I set foot in this room, the light that penetrated through the cracks and crevices cast an otherworldly glow that brought out every aspect of the décor. It was too crowded, and we had to wait a long time before we could enter this marvel. But it was well worth the wait.
Outside I discovered small gardens hidden in the courtyards surrounding some of the tombs. Although small, they bring a welcome sense of calm and nature to this historic site. Over 400 years ago, it was here that the descendants of the royal families of the Saadian dynasty were laid to rest. An emotional nugget that reminds us that the great mausoleums hide less grandiose but no less important destinies that shaped the past of this dynasty.
After this immersion in Saadian history, I continued on my way to the Koutoubia, the imposing minaret that has protected Marrakech for centuries. The noise and activity of the medina, with its spice sellers and craftsmen hard at work, brought me back to the present at every step.
As soon as I arrived in front of the mosque, I stopped to admire its astonishing architectural harmony. It's a sight you can admire from almost anywhere in the city, but every time I go there I discover a different perspective, a different element to ponder.
I took a well-deserved rest in the Koutoubia gardens, just next door. These lush green spaces are a great place to get away from it all, to sit in peace and quiet and watch the world go by. I let myself be carried away by this moment of serenity, savouring the juxtaposition of the great monuments and the serenity of the garden, while children ran between the rose-lined paths and visitors took photos in the shade of the palm trees.
Walking around and soaking up Marrakech's history, architecture and local atmosphere is exactly what makes the city so enchanting. Everywhere you look, there's a story waiting to be told, it's the ideal synthesis of tradition and modernity. Thank you for taking the time to read these lines. I hope you've enjoyed the photos I've taken, and I'll see you soon for more walks and visits!
I'm Redwan from Morocco ! I've always had a passion for travelling and discovery. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than exploring new places, whether historical, archaeological or in the heart of nature. Through my blogs, you can discover the hidden gems of Morocco, whether you want to admire the fascinating architecture of a historic site, delve into the legends surrounding an archaeological site, or simply marvel at the beauty of Moroccan nature!
Photos taken by my own phone (Redmi Note 11).
