El Badi Palace.

One of the must-see attractions in Marrakesh.

El Badi Palace was built in 1578 by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour of the Saadian dynasty.

The palace was built to showcase the considerable wealth of the Saadian dynasty and was a prime example of Islamic architecture and exquisite craftsmanship.

Using both Moroccan and European influences, the palace was beautifully decorated with intricate mosaic tiles, marble arches, and ornate carvings.

The palace was said to have 300 rooms decorated in gold, turquoise, and crystal.

It was also home to the sultans harem, which included over 500 women.

Now, only the ruins remain.

After Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour died in 1603, the palace fell into neglect.

When Meknes became the new capital city, it was completely stripped of all its materials and transported there to create a new palace.

El Badi is certainly worth a visit if you want to learn about the history of Marrakech and the elite who ruled centuries ago.

The exhibition space contains the Almoravid Minbar, which is a finely decorated pulpit that once  stood inside the Koutoubia Mosque.

It also hosts temporary art and cultural exhibitions.

The underground chambers contain information and photographs about the palaces history.

Unfortunately, the palace was badly damaged during the earthquake in 2023, and renovations have taken place to repair the cracks in the walls.

El Badi Palace is situated in the Kasbah district of Marrakech, which is to the south of the city.

The huge patio is impressive, and the nesting storks on top of the towers give it a kind of mystical feel.

Visiting this once opulent palace, you get a sense of the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty.

There’s a feeling of peace and tranquillity within its walls, and you get to appreciate its historical significance.

El Badi Palace is open every day from 9.00am to 5.00pm and costs 100 dirhams to enter.