The Imperial cities of Morocco

[jw5]

The Imperial cities of Morocco​

As the four historical capital cities of Morocco, Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, and Rabat are referred to as the country's Imperial Cities. Blending a rich and fascinating history with a colorful and exotic culture, each of these destinations dazzle with their extraordinary wealth of impressive visitor attractions, many of them UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ready to explore?

 

[jw5]

Fez​

The oldest of Morocco’s four imperial cities, Fez, also spelled as Fes, was founded under Idrisid rule during the 8th-9th centuries CE. Visitors to Fez invariably seek out the city’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

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Chouara Tannery​

One of three tanneries in Fez, ancient Chouara, located in the Fes el Bali, the oldest medina quarter of the city, is a visually stunning must-see. They’ve been working Chouara for centuries, where the round stone vessels filled with natural colorants used for dying the hides of cows, sheep, and camels provide a fascinating glimpse into labor-intensive production methods unchanged since medieval times.

 

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Richly decorated architecture​

Fez is notable for its outstanding collection of historic merchant buildings, bathhouses, palaces, and private residences. Many feature beautiful facades richly decorated with tiles of colorful geometric patterns and cursive calligraphy.

 

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Al-Attarine Madrasa​

The influential position Fez maintains as a religious center in the region is exemplified by the city’s madrasas, or universities. Many of these ancient institutions can be visited, including Al-Attarine. Pictured is an interior view of Al-Attarine, built by the Marinid sultan Abu al-Hassan in 1323–1325. It's one of the most richly-decorated historic madrasas in the city.

 

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Zawiya of Moulay Idris II​

Marked by a tall, slender minaret in the heart of Fes al-Beli, the oldest walled part of Fez, this shrine contains the tomb of Idris II (791-828), considered the founder of Fez. It’s one of the holiest shrines in Morocco.

 

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Dar Batha Museum​

This 19th-century former royal palace was converted into a museum in the early 20th century. It houses a vast and valuable collection of well over 6,000 artifacts, pieces that include architectural fragments from the Idrisid era.

 

[countryman]

No riot after they beaten Spain in the WC?

 

[syed putra]

No riot after they beaten Spain in the WC?

Before it was a shock win. But looks like its now the new normal. The only non traditional football nation left in the cup.

 

[syed putra]

No riot after they beaten Spain in the WC?

Before it was a shock win. But looks like its now the new normal. The only non traditional football nation left in the cup.
If the go on, it will encourage poverty impoverished muslims to abandon terror organisations and participate in sports/other skills and becoming professionals.
Middle east arabs only gained independence from turkish rule less than 100 years ago after 800 years of being domination.
They are just finding their way back to past glory before the fall of baghdad by the mongol snd turk horde way back in 1253.

 

[jw5]

Marinid Tombs​

Located on a hill above the old city of Fez is a set of ruined monumental tombs believed to date back to the 14th century, during the Marinid dynasty. They were originally a royal necropolis, the interiors of which would have featured rich ornamentation and colorful marble epitaphs.

 

[jw5]

Exploring the souks​

Fez is renowned for its many traditional crafts, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the shops and stores that line the tangle of streets and alleys of the souks found within the high walls of the historic medina. Browse at leisure for an authentic souvenir while absorbing the color and clamor of this wonderful open market.

 

[jw5]

Marrakesh​

Arguably the most visited of Morocco’s imperial cities, Marrakesh was founded in 1070 as the imperial capital of the Almoravid Empire. The city grew rapidly and established itself as a regional cultural, religious, and trading hub. The enchanting Jemaa el-Fnaa (pictured) is the busiest square in Africa. The entire medina quarter is a World Heritage Site.

 

[jw5]

Marrakesh souk​

Jemaa el-Fnaa is edged along one side by the Marrakesh souk, a traditional North African covered market. Here you can easily lose yourself among the maze of food and artisan stores that cater to locals and visitors alike. A pair of bejeweled slippers (pictured) make a quirky souvenir.

 

[jw5]

Koutoubia Mosque​

The largest mosque in Marrakesh, Koutoubia (sometimes spelled Kutubiyya) is set near Jemaa el-Fnaa. The mosque was founded in 1147, though what you see today dates from 1158. The minaret, considered a classic example of Almohad architecture, provides a suitably dramatic skyline landmark.

 

[jw5]

Majorelle Garden​

This delightful little botanical garden and artist’s landscape garden encloses a villa that houses Marrakesh’s Islamic Art Museum, the Berber Museum, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, inaugurated in 2017. Incidentally, after the French fashion designer died in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the Majorelle Garden.

 

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Bahia Palace​

Completed in 1900, historic Bahia Palace is celebrated across the region for its decoration. Its wall features stucco carved with Arabic inscriptions, geometric patterns, and arabesques. The Grand Courtyard (pictured) is paved with Italian Carrara marble. The palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Morocco.

 

[jw5]

Saadian Tombs​

The historic royal necropolis in Marrakesh known as the Saadian Tombs dates to the time of the Saadian dynasty, and especially to the reign of Ahmad al-Mansur (1578-1603). Resplendent in its luxurious decoration and interior design, the site is another hugely popular tourist draw.

 

[jw5]

Spice of life​

Looking to stock up on herbs and spices? The souk is where to find and barter for all sorts of exotic condiments, seasonings that include cayenne, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, aniseed, and cumin. Even if you decide not to purchase anything, the nose-tingling aromas are simply intoxicating.

 

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Namaskar Palace​

Marrakesh caters to all sorts of travelers, from budget backpackers to city-break romantics. But if you’re seeking a private and palatial splurge, consider a stay at the plush Palais Namaskar. This luxury oasis incorporates a spa retreat and a noted fine dining restaurant.