Exploring the Vibrant Heart of Marrakech with Friends

Marrakech Unveiled: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of delving deep into the heart of Marrakech, beyond the bustling souks and familiar tourist trails. With my friends, I set out to explore the historical and cultural tapestry that makes this city so unique. It was a day of contrasts, from the solemn beauty of ancient mosques to the vibrant stories etched in the walls of the old Jewish quarter. Each place we visited offered a new perspective, a different angle on the rich and complex history of Marrakech.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rooftop Restaurant Koulchi Zine - Marrakech Medina. The panoramic views of the city were the perfect backdrop as we fueled up for the day's adventures. The restaurant was adorned in a unique Beatles theme, which I found quite charming. We savored traditional Moroccan pastries and strong coffee, chatting excitedly about our plans. Isabella would have loved this place, with all of the vegan options available. After breakfast, we set off to explore the Kasbah Mosque.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors with stunning views at Rooftop Restaurant Koulchi Zine in Marrakech's vibrant Medina.

Kasbah Mosque (Moulay al-Yazid Mosque)

The Moulay al-Yazid Mosque, also known as the Kasbah Mosque, was our first stop. As a historical building restoration consultant, I was particularly eager to see this architectural marvel. Built in the late 12th century by the Almohad ruler Yaqub al-Mansur, the mosque stands as a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage. The sheer scale of the structure is impressive, and its intricate details tell stories of centuries past. The mosque's towering minaret dominates the skyline, a silent sentinel watching over the city.


Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the Moulay al-Yazid Mosque, a must-visit cultural landmark in the heart of Marrakesh.

The history of the Kasbah Mosque is fascinating. It was commissioned as part of the newly created imperial kasbah, intended to be the residence of the Almohad Caliph and the seat of government. Over the centuries, it has undergone several restorations, most notably after a massive explosion at a nearby gunpowder store in the late 16th century. Despite these changes, the mosque has retained its original Almohad design, a testament to the reverence in which it is held.

Walking around the mosque, I imagined the countless prayers that had been offered within its walls, the generations of worshippers who had sought solace and guidance in this sacred space. Although non-Muslims are not allowed inside, just being in its presence was a powerful experience.

To truly understand a place, you must walk its streets, listen to its stories, and breathe its air.

Exploring the Mellah

Next, we ventured into the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter of Marrakech. Established in 1558, the Mellah offers a stark contrast to the bustling Medina. The narrow streets, lined with houses that have a unique architectural style, exude a sense of history and resilience. The area was founded by Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib as a safe haven for the Jewish community. Having been born in Ouro Preto, Brazil, a city known for its historical architecture and cultural diversity, I felt a particular connection to the Mellah. I thought about the Jewish migration to Marrakech following the expulsion from the Iberian Peninsula in 1492.


Explore Mellah, Marrakesh's historic Jewish quarter, where rich culture, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture await every traveler.

As we wandered through the Mellah, we came across the spice market, its air thick with the aromas of exotic spices. The vibrant colors of the spices – saffron, cumin, turmeric – were a feast for the eyes. My friends and I stopped to chat with a local vendor, who shared stories of the Mellah's past and present. Although most of the inhabitants today are Muslim, the area still retains the marks and traces of its Jewish past.

It was fascinating to learn about the synagogues that still stand in the Mellah, serving as reminders of the once-thriving Jewish community. The Mellah is a testament to the multicultural fabric that makes Morocco such a vibrant nation. While exploring, we also visited Place Souweka, marked by a fountain at the center of the quarters. We also learned that in 1852-53 a mosque was built in its southern part, which resulted in the Mellah expanding towards the east.

For lunch, we stopped at La Table Ocre - Restaurant Marocain. The restaurant was a delightful experience, blending Moroccan tradition with contemporary flair. The menu featured a mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for a traditional tagine, savoring the complex spices and bold flavors that are characteristic of Moroccan cuisine. The lamb tagine with apricots was especially delicious. Mateus would have loved this dish!


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at La Table Ocre in Marrakech's Medina Mall - where tradition meets taste.

Maison de la Photographie

In the afternoon, we made our way to the Maison de la Photographie, a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the photographic history of Morocco. Housed in a beautifully renovated riad, the museum offers a journey back in time through its collection of vintage photographs. I was captivated by the images, which depicted Morocco from the 1870s to the 1950s.


Explore the House of Photography in Marrakech to discover Morocco’s rich visual heritage through captivating historical and contemporary photographs.

The photographs offered a glimpse into a bygone era, capturing the social, cultural, and technological changes that Morocco underwent during this period. There were street scenes with vendors, tanners, and turban-wearers, scenes that could have been taken just minutes ago in the Medina. But on closer inspection, the details revealed a different time, a different world.

The Maison de la Photographie is more than just a museum; it is an archive, a repository of memories that helps us understand the history and identity of Morocco. I was particularly moved by the portraits of Moroccans from different walks of life, their faces etched with stories of resilience, dignity, and hope. The museum also presents younger works of Moroccan photo art. The Maison also organizes thematic exhibitions with original prints.

As someone who appreciates photography, I found the museum to be a treasure trove of visual delights. The images were not only historically significant but also artistically stunning, showcasing the talent and vision of the photographers who captured them. The Maison de la Photographie is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Morocco.

Before dinner, we stopped by MY Kechmara for a refreshing drink. This trendy bar and restaurant, located in the Gueliz area, has a laid-back hipster vibe and a cool urban roof terrace. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We sipped on cocktails and enjoyed the lively atmosphere, chatting about our favorite moments from the day.


Experience the fusion of flavors and vibrant atmosphere at MY Kechmara, Marrakech's premier bar and rooftop restaurant.

For dinner, we chose Le Bistro Arabe - Moroccan Jazz Restaurant in Marrakech. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, combining Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisines with live jazz music. The atmosphere was elegant and romantic, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. I opted for the chef's signature dish, the pulled beef with truffle, while my friends tried the chicken and lemon tagine. The food was delicious, and the live jazz music added to the ambiance. The service was also excellent, with the staff being friendly and attentive. Ahmed was our server and he was very professional and welcoming.


Discover Le Bistro Arabe: A fine dining haven in Marrakech offering Moroccan cuisine paired with enchanting live jazz performances.

The evening ended with a stroll through the Medina, its labyrinthine streets now quieter and more mysterious than during the day. The scent of spices still hung in the air, mingling with the aroma of mint tea. As we walked, I reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to have explored Marrakech's hidden gems with my friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Parc Lalla Hasna, La Ménara Pavilion and the Agdal Gardens. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this magical city.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.