Marrakech travel guide - the médina

One cannot get a true feeling of Marrakech without spending some time and getting lost at least a few times in the labyrinth of small alleys and passageways leading into residential quarters of the medina.

These pathways were originally designed in this manner to confuse invaders and still working today to confuse tourists. Once you are lost do not get frustrated, just look for the largest pathway or "road" and it will almost always lead you back to Djemaa El Fna Square or to one of the babs (door or gate) of the surrounding city wall.

The real heart of Marrakesh is its medina, classified by UNESCO as a world heritage site. For the most part, monuments of historical and cultural importance are either in or near the medina. Originally built in the first half of the twelfth century for protection, a good portion of the surrounding ramparts are still standing and are really quite beautiful. Once the city walls are in sight, you know you are either inside or very near to the medina.

Rumors are that almost half the population of Marrakech lives in the medina, this would mean almost 400,000 habitants with a density of 60,000 per square km. There still exist 215 km (9miles) of intact ramparts and 14 original babs or doors. These gates used to be locked every night before the French protectorate in order to protect the inhabitants.

Residential quarters in the medina are typically organized around mosques, fountains or hammams and are comprised of interlocked homes with surrounding walls that line the passageways. Hidden behind these walls are peaceful sanctuaries of beautiful gardens with courtyards organized around large fountains decorated with elaborate mosaic designs. These courtyards set the stage for the architectural treasures that are riads (traditional Moroccan residences), which provide serene havens from the bustling energy of the surrounding souks.