Family Cultural Immersion in Marrakech

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of stepping back in time, immersing ourselves in the rich history and stunning architecture of Marrakech. It's amazing how these ancient sites can transport you to another era, allowing you to feel the pulse of the past beneath your feet. I was particularly excited to share this experience with my family, hoping to instill in Nadia a sense of wonder and appreciation for different cultures.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of traditional Moroccan dishes filled the air. I ordered a tagine, while Lukas opted for a hearty omelet, and Nadia happily munched on some freshly baked bread. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I especially enjoyed the complimentary mint tea, a staple in Marrakech, it seems. It was the perfect start to the day.


Experience the true taste of Morocco at Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Bahia Palace. The name Bahia translates to brilliance, and the palace certainly lived up to its name. Built in the late 19th century, it was intended to be the grandest palace of its time. As we wandered through its opulent halls and lush courtyards, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate marquetry, plasterwork, and zouak (painted wood) that adorned every surface. The palace was initially built by Si Moussa, grand vizier of the sultan, in the 1860s and later expanded by his son, Ba Ahmed. It's fascinating to think that this palace once housed Ba Ahmed's four wives and numerous concubines. The guide told us that the Cour d'Honneur, with its vast expanse of Italian Carrara marble, was once converted into a harem. It's hard to imagine such a space filled with so many lives and stories. It's interesting to note that the palace was built on one level, possibly because Ba Ahmed was stout and found it difficult to climb stairs. The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and the country's rich cultural heritage. It has also served as a royal residence and significantly influenced Morocco's cultural and political landscape.


Discover the beauty of Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark showcasing Moroccan architecture and lush gardens.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

I tried to imagine what life must have been like within those walls, the secrets whispered in the corridors, the lavish parties, and the quiet moments of contemplation. Nadia was particularly fascinated by the colorful stained glass windows, a feature that our guide mentioned was quite unique for North Africa at the time. She ran her fingers along the cool marble walls, her eyes wide with curiosity. I explained to her how the palace later became the residence of the French Resident-General after the French Protectorate was established in 1912, and then a royal residence again after Morocco gained independence. It's amazing how one building can witness so much history.

After immersing ourselves in the grandeur of the Bahia Palace, we made our way to the Saadian Tombs. This hidden necropolis, dating back to the Saadian dynasty in the 16th century, was lost to history for centuries, only to be rediscovered in 1917 by a French aerial survey. The story goes that Sultan Moulay Ismail decided to erase all traces of the Saadian dynasty in the 18th century, but he couldn't bring himself to destroy their graves, so he ordered the entrance to the necropolis to be walled off. It remained hidden until that fateful flight.


Discover the Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark revealing the grandeur of Morocco's royal past through stunning architecture and rich history.

As we entered the tombs, a sense of tranquility washed over me. The intricate tilework, carved plaster, and serene courtyards created a harmonious blend of artistry and spirituality. The Saadian dynasty ruled during the Golden Age of Marrakesh between 1524 and 1659. The tombs are a testament to the opulence and power of that era. The complex consists of three main mausoleums: the Hall of Twelve Columns, the Hall of the Three Niches, and the Hall of Prayer. We spent a long time in the Hall of Twelve Columns, marveling at the delicate cedarwood dome and the inscriptions from the Quran that adorned the walls. This hall is where Sultan Ahmed El-Mansour is buried. Nadia was intrigued by the storks nesting in the outdoor gardens, a charming sight amidst the solemnity of the tombs.

For lunch, we decided to try Le Jardin Restaurant Marrakech Medina. The restaurant is owned by Kamal Laftimi, who also owns Café des Épices. It was a delightful oasis of green in the heart of the Medina. The green-on-green tiled riad was filled with banana trees, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. We sat in the courtyard, surrounded by lush plants and the gentle murmur of other diners. I opted for a traditional tagine, while Lukas chose a grilled fish dish, and Nadia devoured a plate of pasta. The food was delicious, and the setting was perfect for a relaxing midday break. I learned that Le Jardin is a popular spot for both locals and expats, and it's easy to see why. In the evening, the courtyard sparkles with candlelight, creating a magical ambiance.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors in a serene garden setting at Le Jardin Restaurant in Marrakech's enchanting Medina.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we sought out Kosybar Marrakech (Restaurant Bar & Spa) for a relaxing end to the day. It was easy to find, thanks to its great location. This bar offers a unique experience with its restaurant, bar, and spa all in one place. We settled onto the rooftop terrace, with its stunning views of the city and the stork nests on the walls of the El Badi Palace. Nadia was thrilled to spot the storks soaring overhead. I ordered a refreshing mint tea, while Lukas enjoyed a glass of local wine. The atmosphere was relaxed and sophisticated, with soft music playing in the background. The staff were attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. I read that Kosybar offers a fusion of Moroccan, Japanese, and international cuisine, but we were content with just enjoying the drinks and the view.


Experience the vibrant fusion of Moroccan and Japanese cuisine at Kosybar Marrakech, a relaxing lounge and spa in the heart of the city.

For dinner, we ventured to Le Trou Au Mur Restaurant and Roof terrace. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, tucked away down a side alley, but it was well worth the effort. The restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine with a contemporary twist. The interior design was beautiful, with lovely paintings adorning the walls. We chose to dine on the rooftop terrace, which offered a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. I decided to try the Meshoui lamb, while Lukas opted for the Berber shepherd's pie. Nadia, of course, went for the familiar comfort of chicken and fries. The food was exquisite, with complex flavors drawn from traditional Moroccan cuisine. The service was impeccable, with knowledgeable waiters who recommended the best dishes and wines. I read that Le Trou Au Mur is known for its slow-cooked dishes, like the eight-hour Meshoui, and I could certainly taste the difference. The lamb was incredibly tender and flavorful.


Experience exquisite modern European and Moroccan cuisine at Le Trou Au Mur, Marrakesh's premier rooftop dining destination.

As we sat there, savoring the last bites of our meal and enjoying the cool evening breeze, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today had been a whirlwind of history, culture, and culinary delights. I am very happy that I was able to share all of this with my family. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Jardin Majorelle and Musée Berbère Jardin Majorelle. I'm excited to see the vibrant colors and learn more about Berber culture. Nadia is especially looking forward to the gardens, and I know she'll love the Musée Berbère. Hopefully, we'll also have time to do some shopping at 33 RUE MAJORELLE. I am sure it will be another unforgettable day in Marrakech.

Marrakech, with its labyrinthine streets and vibrant souks, can sometimes feel overwhelming. But within its ancient walls lie hidden oases of tranquility and beauty, waiting to be discovered. Today, we found them, and in doing so, we created memories that will last a lifetime.