The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: Berber

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • The History Of Marrakech.

    A look at the history of the ancient red city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech has been inhabited for over 1000 years Morocco took its name from Marrakech.The first settlers were Berber farmers who had lived on the land since neolithic times.The Amazigh people named the country Murakush, meaning the Western kingdom, later Arab conquerors adapted the name to Morocco.

    During the 11th and 12th centuries, the Almoravids were the rulers of Marrakech, founded by Abu Bakr Ibn Umar in 1070, they began constructing an underground water system to supply water to the city canals, which attracted merchants and craftsmen to Marrakech.They built riads for the people who were beginning to settle in Marrakech, and it became a real city. His cousin and successor Yuseff Ibn Tashfin developed Marrakech even further, turning it into the Almoravid empire.He erected mud brick houses, giving the city its prominent,distinctive red colour its famous for today.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was during this period that the Masjid al siquaya mosque was built, and market places called souks began to spring up, marking the beginning of urban life in Marrakech.

    In the 12th and 13th centuries, the Almohads overthrew the Almoravids and took over the city.They continued to develop Marrakech even further, painting the walls of the city red and building spectacular palaces and the famous Koutoubia Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Marrakech and a significant landmark.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    They were intellectuals and artists, and many scholars were attracted to the affluent city. They also introduced education and art, turning it into a political, economical, and cultural centre. They also began improving on the original water system by building open air canals, which allowed water to flow down from the  high Atlas mountains. This gave people a better quality of life, and they began to flourish. The city soon began to prosper under the rule of the Almohads and became a thriving place for merchants to meet and exchange goods.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In the 13th century, the Merinid Empire took control of Marrakech in 1230 ruling for two centuries.They built the first madrasa in 1343-9 and used Marrakech as a training ground for heirs to the throne. Marrakech was the imperial capital of Morocco, but the Merinids decided that they preferred the city of Fes, which resulted in Marrakech going into serious decline. Fes soon became the new capital city, and Marrakech became the regional capital of the South instead.

    Because of the move to Fes, Marrakech was practically abandoned and left to decay, becoming impoverished and neglected. The buildings were left to crumble, and the city that was once a bustling hive of activity began to die.

    From 1578-1603, the Saadian  Sultans led by Ahmad Al Mansur came to power. They restored the forgotten city to its former glory and breathed new life into it, reastablishing Marrakech into a capital city once again.They built the Saadian tombs and El Badi palace, furnishing them with intricate zellige tilework work and stucco decoration.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    They launched military campaigns against European invasion, and this period of rule became the golden age of literature and art. The Saads built Bab Doukkala mosque in 1557-1571 and Mouassine mosque in 1562-72.They also built the Ben Youssef Madrasa in 1570.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    In 1631, rule was passed from the Saadian dynasty to the Alaouite dynasty, which is still the name of the current Morroccan royal family. The Alaouites promoted trade with the United States and other European countries. They improved date palm crops and modernised the army. They also attempted to take control of the Berber and Bedoin tribes. They restored the riads and buildings in Marrakech, redeveloping it’s infrastructure after years of decline.

    It was in 1911 that the capital of Morocco became Rabat.

    Marrakech became a French protectorate in 1912 when the sultan Abd al-Hafid signed the treaty of Fes. Although the sultan remained the head of state, the French had a huge influence in developing strong diplomatic and economic relations in both trade and tourism. The French began modernising the city and building new districts whilst still aiming to preserve the traditional character of the city. They encouraged tourism and the export of Moroccan dates and other produce. In 1956, the treaty of Fes was passed back, and Morocco gained its independence again.

    Throughout its history, Marrakech has been a city that has resurged, declined, and resurged once again.It has fought against several invasions and endured  plagues and famines.

    In 1982, UNESCO declared Marrakech a UNESCO world heritage site, raising awareness of the cultural heritage of the city. It is now one of the most popular destinations in the world and receives millions of tourists each year.

    Marrakech combines the ancient with modernity. Visitors can get a glimpse into its intriguing past as they wander around the preserved walls of the medina. As they venture into the tree lined avenues of Mohammed V avenue, they are presented with a newer,modern side of Marrakech, a thriving hub of fancy restaurants, bars and boutiques.

    The city is developing fast and attracting tourism at an exceptionally high rate. Despite this, it still continues to retain its culture, customs, and historical significance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • The Amazigh.

    The indigenous people of North Africa.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In Marrakech, you will often hear the word Berber. Amazigh, also known as Berbers, is an indigenous group native to North Africa, with a history stretching back thousands of years.They have lived across a vast region that encompasses modern-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, and Niger.

    The Berbers made a huge contribution to the region’s cultural and technological heritage, including the creation of the Khettara system, an ancient water management technique involving a network of underground tunnels that channel water from mountain aquifers to arid lands. This enabled farming and agriculture to thrive in a harsh environment. The Berbers existed as a totally self-sufficient community thriving long before the arrival of foreign empires.


    Over the centuries, the Berbers faced numerous challenges, including invasions and exploitation by foreign powers.During the Ottoman era, slave traders targeted Berber communities, kidnapping many women to become slaves, throwing their society into complete chaos. The Berbers became known for their resistance, with some tribes turning to piracy as a way to survive and out of defiance against foreign powers. Barbary pirates became infamous for raiding ships and coastal towns, which led to conflicts  during the Barbary Wars.

    Despite all these challenges, the Berber culture has continued to endure, holding on to its distinct language, culture, and identity through sheer resilience.

    The history of Amizigh is now taught in schools and is officially known as the second language in Morocco, next to Arabic. Moroccan people are proud of their heritage and its rich culture, but they had to fight for the right to have it recognised. The name Berber comes from the roman word ‘Barbaric’ and is now considered offensive to use it to describe the indigenous people of North Africa. The name Amazigh, which means ‘free people’, is now used instead. Over 90% of the general population of Morocco has indigenous Berber DNA, and Marrakech is one of the most culturally Amazigh cities in Morocco alongside Agadir.

    It is possible for visitors to Marrakech to take a trip into the Atlas Mountains to observe the ancient customs and lifestyle of the Amazigh. A stay in a Berber home is an unforgettable experience and a way to really get to know the history of Morrocco. In the Atlas mountains, life continues in very much the same way as it always has.  Visitors to villages like Imlil get the opportunity to eat a home cooked meal with an Amazigh family and witness their day-to-day life, which isn’t an easy one. This fascinating experience can be booked online or through your accommodation.

    There is beautiful  jewellery and rugs made by the Amazigh for sale in the medina. The art of carpet weaving by Amazigh women is demonstrated, and tourists get to appreciate the work that goes into producing these beautiful high-quality masterpieces

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    To learn more about Amazigh culture, visit the museum of photography or Marrakech museum. Both places will  give you a deeper insight into the history and customs of Amazigh culture.

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  • Islamic Architecture In Marrakech.

    A look at Islamic architecture and craftsmanship.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The beautiful Islamic architecture found in Marrakech is a testimony to its wealth of history and culture. From intricately carved wooden doors to geometric mosaic tiles and tadelakt, Marrakech has some of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Morocco.You can’t help but be impressed by the attention to detail as you wonder around the medina.

    Large wooden doors exquisitely carved out of Cedar wood appear out of nowhere as you pass through the winding alleyways.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Zellige tiles originating from the 10th century form geometric mosaics decorating the floors, walls, and fountains. A skill which has passed down from generation to generation.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Islamic architecture in Morocco follows the spiritual principle of Tawhid, the unity of God. There are handcarved stucco panels with expertly applied fine details, including floral motifs and calligraphy from Nakshi and Kufic Arabic scripts. These are set against a backdrop of peace and tranquillity.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The use of symmetry, repeated geometric patterns, and balanced proportions reflect divine order and infinity. The use of geometry and proportion symbolizes universal harmony.
    Calligraphy enshrines verses from the Qur’an, which merges both word and form together. Light also plays a sacred role. As it filters through lattice screens called mashrabiyas and central courtyards, it evokes the essence of divine presence.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Islamic architecture blends together Arab, Amazigh, Andalusian and Sub Saharan influences. Perfect examples can be seen at the Koutoubia Mosque, Ben Youseff Madrasa, Bahia Palace, Saadian tombs, and El Badi Palace.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Bab Agnaou gate is one of 19 splendid arched gates into the city showcasing intricate carvings.

    Hammams, which were constructed centuries ago, reflect the scale of precision and sheer brilliance of Islamic architecture. Exploring these beautiful places is a journey through the history and culture of Marrakech. You will be spellbound by the beauty of the tiled fountains with their original zellige tilework in the courtyards of riads. Original water features have been restored and strategically situated around the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are two knockers on the magnificent wooden doors. One which is strictly for family members and one for guests to use.  This is in order to shield and protect the women of the household from the gaze of male strangers.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There are places all around the medina where you will want to take photographs of the beautiful work local artisans left the world as their legacy.

    The remarkable skills of trained craftsmen are evident inside traditional riads. Unique pieces of handmade furniture, beautifully painted doors, and splendid ceilings demonstrate the skill involved.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    You can find people creating things in Marrakech using the same techniques that generations before them had used. At Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex near Cyber Park, you can see the artisans busy at work. Here, they teach young apprentices the art passed down by their ancestors.

    Around the medina, you will find carefully designed wooden chess sets and wooden boxes ornately inlaid with Mother of pearl. In Tinsmiths Square, metal workers are busy crafting traditional Morroccan lamps and mirrors.

    As you wander through the souks, you are presented with examples of beautifully crafted items for sale. The amount of work that has gone into creating each piece is phenomenal.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The roots of Moroccan architecture originate from the Amazigh and Arab culture. Styles have evolved from one dynasty to the other, including the Almoravids, the Almohads, and the Marinids.

    Nowadays, architects are using a combination of old and modern designs in their construction of buildings. This has led to a new style. It’s still characteristic of the old medina, but introduces newer, environmentally friendly buildings. They continue to incorporate the traditional zellige tilework in order to pay homage to the history and culture of the city. Riads are restored as close to their original appearance as possible. Some are modern and contemporary, which some tourists find appealing.

    I personally love the rustic charm of the older riads. The ones that evoke images of a world gone by. Those riads clinging to remnants of the past. The ones telling the story of an ancient culture which, if you look closely, is still very much alive today.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Shopping In The Souks.

    A guide to stressfree shopping in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The sound of the souks is something you will never forget. There is everything you could dream of buying in the colourful bazaars around Marrakech medina. As you meander through the maze of winding alleyways, prepare yourself for a complete overload on the senses. You will be dazzled by everything from beautiful Amazigh jewellery to exotic spices, leather goods, Morroccan lamps, and pretty ceramics. It’s all there waiting for you  inside the vibrant souks.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Within each bustling area, skilled craftsmen are busy at work, and there are souks dedicated to creating and selling different items.There is an area for leather goods, a place where metal workers make Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures and areas where handmade wooden things are meticulously created. The art of rug weaving is demonstrated, and you may even get the chance to have a go.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s interesting watching the locals make their wares to sell and seeing silver and copper bangles being engraved with your Arabic name on them. There is also an opportunity to have a go at making a pair of traditional Morroccan shoes known as babouches.

    Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern tells the story of the villagers who worked tirelessly to create them in the Atlas mountains.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    You will find argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia.The subtle fragrance floats past you, only shattered by the fumes of motorcycles as they drive through. It’s a heady combination of spices, incense, and day to day life in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl,chess sets, cuddly toys, and traditional teapots tempt you as you search the souks for  souvenirs. You learn the art of haggling for the best prices.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching. The only problem is choosing your favourite colours, patterns, and textures and wandering how you’ll fit them into your luggage.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Moroccan sweets are a delicacy. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with the amount of nuts and pastries for sale around the medina.

    The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances. You draw closer to look, and a friendly vendor sticks a piece of eucalyptus under your nose. Before you know it, your eyes are watering, and you’re reaching for a tissue.

    Fresh olives pop with colour. Their subtle spice dances on your tongue, and you have to buy some because they’re addictive. One or two is never enough to satisfy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Paintings of Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert are displayed on walls  and hang strategically outside shop doorways.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For people who love to shop until they drop, the souks are a dream come true. The lively rhythm and friendly banter  is a magical experience.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s not always a breeze shopping in such a densely packed area, though. The souks get incredibly busy with tourists. You constantly have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts. You will probably get lost, but that’s all part of the charm. You eventually find your way out with some effort.

    I recommend fully immersing yourself in the experience and enjoying every moment. It will invoke in you the spirit of camel caravans and their ancient trade routes from centuries ago. After all, the souks are one of the main reasons tourists come to Marrakech. Shopping in them is the perfect way to delve into the fascinating culture of Marrakech and pick up a few treasures along the way.

    Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy your shopping experience in the souks.

    • First of all, pace yourself. The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat. Stop regularly for a drink and rehydrate. Rest for a while, and have a spot of lunch on a rooftop terrace. There are plenty inside the souks.
    • Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it. In Morocco, bargaining is a way of life, and although it can get frustrating wondering if you’re being ripped off, it’s also rather gratifying if you manage to procure something at a good price. Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price. You will often find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can be reached. If not, the same items will most likely be found for sale in another part of the souks.
    • Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you. Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen like anywhere else in the world. In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body. Don’t be tempted to take out too much cash at once and leave your passport in a safe wherever possible.
    • If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna. Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks. If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re more than happy to help, but be aware of opportunists who may try to send you in a different direction.
    • This brings me to don’t accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop. They get a commission if you buy something. You may find yourself seated, drinking mint tea, and before you know it, there’s a mountain of Berber carpets at your feet.
    • Exercise patience. Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to. Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors. Marrakech was badly affected by the earthquake in 2023, and people’s livelihoods suffered as a result.
    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Although the souks may often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience in Marrakech.  The cacophony of colours,  pulsating energy, and bustling atmosphere will stay with you for a long time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Dar Bouchaib.

    A fixed price store in the Kasbah.

    Are you fed up with haggling each time you want to buy something? If so, there is a fixed price store in the Kasbah district where you won’t have to bargain. Here, you will find everything that’s for sale in the souks at a fixed price.

    On the ground floor, there are ceramics, jewellery, clothing, footwear, bags, souvenirs, and much more.

    The perfumed oils are of a high quality, and you can create your own signature fragrance by blending several together.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    On the first floor, there is handmade furniture, mirrors, vases, and other large items for the home. There is a huge selection of Berber rugs for sale, which can be shipped worldwide. The store is huge. It’s worth visiting just to see the craftsmanship that’s gone into creating everything on the upper floor.

    The staff at Dar Bouchaib are helpful. You can wander around the shop without any pressure to buy.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is an easy 15-minute walk from the main square. There are plenty of shops and  restaurants along the way. There are popular sightseeing  places in this part of the city, including Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.

    Dar Bouchaib can be found on Rue de La Kasbah Marrakech 40000. It’s open daily from 9.00 am until 8.30 pm. Bank holiday hours may differ, so check first before arriving.

    Although a big part of visiting Marrakech is shopping in the souks, sometimes haggling can be stressful. Not knowing how much you should be paying gives vendors the upper hand. Tourists often get overcharged. In contrast, Dar Bouchaib is a relaxed shopping experience with everything under one roof. The prices are fixed and reflect what you should be paying for each item.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Dar Bouchaib is a few steps away from the popular restaurant Krepchy. Cafe Zeitoune is also close by and a great place for lunch. It’s pedestrianised around the mosque, and there are plenty of benches.

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  • The House of Photography.

    See a private collection of 10,000 rare exhibits.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The House of Photography is an important cultural venue in Marrakech. Housed in an old fondouk in the medina, a visit here is a fascinating journey through time.

    It was established by Patrick Manac’h and Hamid Mergani as a place where old photos taken in Morocco could be displayed for the public to view. It opened its doors to the public in 2009 and is now home to thousands of original documents, photographs, postcards, newspapers, and photographic glass plates.

    A private collection of 10,000 exhibits from 1879-1960, including contemporary photos from the present, allows visitors an opportunity to get to know the history of the Berber tribes in the high Atlas Mountains.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The first colour film recorded in the High Atlas Mountains in 1957, called ‘Landscapes and Faces of the High Atlas Mountains’ by Daniel Chicault, is also available for visitors to watch.

    The Museum of Photography is incredibly interesting, and the photos on display are well preserved, giving visitors to Marrakech a detailed account of how Berbers lived. I was fascinated by how the women dressed and their incredible hairstyles. Watching the video has broadened my knowledge about the history of Berber culture and their customs. It’s only as recent as the 1950s, yet they survived without electricity or medical care.

    The displays stay interesting because they changed them periodically, and at the time I visited, there was one about Berber Jews.

    Inside the museum, there is a rooftop cafe serving drinks, including speciality coffee and food. There are views across the rooftops of the medina, and you can see the Atlas mountains in the distance. It can get pretty busy during the lunchtime rush.

    You can purchase copies of some of the photographs in the entrance, and the quality of the prints is good. I bought a copy of Un Charmeur de Serpents – vers 1920, and it looks great in a vintage photo frame.

    The museum is open daily from 9.00 am until 7.00pm.

    The address is 46 rue Ahl Fes, Bin Lafnadek Marrakech 400030, not far from Ben Youssef Madrasa.

    Payment is on entry only, and it’s 80 dirhams for adults, 15 years old and under are free. The ticket also permits entry into the museum of music.

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  • Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee.

    Taste traditional Saharan Coffee. 

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee is a hidden gem inside Souk El Kebir. It is here that rich aromatic coffee is brewed using hot saharan sand, gently spiced with a touch of Cardamom, Turmeric, or Cinnamon to give it a distinct flavour.

    To make it, the coffee is added to iced water inside small brass pots and then heated by moving it around by hand in hot sand. It’s an ancient technique of brewing coffee that involves no electricity, simply hot Merzouga sand.

    The coffee has a rich, dense, creamy flavour unlike any other coffee found in the medina. It is soothing and velvety.

    This charming little spot is humble in appearance, cosy and inviting. There is a small rooftop terrace where you can sit and enjoy your coffee in peace, a moment of sheer self-indulgence

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Chez Bismillah offers you a serene refuge where you can sit watching the medina come to life tucked away in a quiet space away from the crowds.

    It’s an experience watching the coffee being made from rich arabica and fragrant spices. In moments, it has heated up as if by magic. I savoured its unique taste whilst congratulating myself for finding this amazing discovery in the alleyways of the souks.

    Chez Bismillah is a unique experience firmly rooted in place and tradition. The friendly proprietor gives you a glimpse into a past that conjures up images of camel traders selling cloth in the fondouk and stretches of vast desert terrain.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s not just a cup of coffee. It’s an escape from reality, a moment of peace from the hectic rhythm of the busy souks.

    Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee can be found at 193 Souk El Kabir, it is open daily from 9.00am until 9.00pm with the exception of Saturday and Sunday when it closes at 7.00pm.

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  • Moroccan Berber Rugs.

    A look at how Berber rugs are made.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Berber rugs are handmade by the indigenous Amazigh people of Morocco.

    They are made from the wool of sheep in the high Atlas Mountains. Each type of rug tends to vary in thickness, and the pattern also differs depending on which tribe or village has made it.

    Kilim Berber rugs have no pile and are relatively fine in texture.They are handcrafted using techniques passed down through generations.  To create them natural materials renowned for their durability and luxurious feel are used. Hand-knotting is a long and laborious process. To create a single rug takes around one to two months, with four weavers working on one rug at a time.

    There are several steps that go into making a beautiful Berber rug.

    1. Shearing the Sheep

    Shearing the sheep is the first step in making a Berber rug. This is done by hand, using a special shearing knife. The sheep are first restrained, and then the knife is used to remove the wool from their body in one long strip. The wool is then sorted and cleaned. It is usually the job of the men to shear the sheep, taking care not to injure them or spread infection. The women are responsible for washing the sheared wool.

    2. Carding.


    Carding is the process of aligning the wool fibers so the weavers can spin them into yarn. To card the wool, the fibres are first combed in one direction, and then the wool is brushed in the opposite direction.This helps to loosen the fibers and align them in the same direction. Once the fibers are aligned, the weavers can then spin them into yarn.Carding is an essential step in making a Berber rug, as it helps to ensure that the rug is strong and durable. The process of carding also helps to give the rug its unique texture. Women are responsible for this process.

    3. Spinning the wool into yarn.


    To spin the wool into yarn, Amazigh women use something called a drop spindle. This simple tool consists of a shaft with a weight at the bottom. The wool is attached to the shaft, and then the shaft is twirled between the women’s hands. As the shaft is twirled, the wool is wrapped around it, creating the yarn.

    4. Weaving the rug.

    The village women are responsible for weaving the rugs. Weavers use a technique called continuous knotting to create intricate patterns. This method of knotting allows the weaver to create a rug that is durable and will last for many years.The process begins by the weaver tying knots in the woollen yarn.The yarn is then dyed using natural dyes from plants, spices, and fruits. This gives the rugs their characteristic colours. Once the yarn has been dyed, the weaver begins weaving it into a rug using a loom.The loom is a wooden frame that the weaver uses to create the rugs design. The weaver ties the yarn around the looms warp threads, which are the vertical threads that run through the loom. The weaver then weaves the weft threads, which are the horizontal threads, over and under the warp threads.The weaver can create various patterns by changing the direction of the weft threads. Once the rug is complete, the weaver cuts the rug from the loom and ties the ends of the rug together. The rug is now finished.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Making a Berber rug is a long, laborious task. The women of the village who weaved them rarely get anything near the price they’re eventually sold for. Their husbands load the rugs onto the back of a donkey and take them to a buyer. The buyer gives him a fraction of their value.

    Efforts are being made to make sure that ethical practices are being implemented. Many organizations now work directly with Berber artisans to eliminate middlemen, ensuring women receive fair payment for their work. More women are forming cooperatives to manage the entire process, increasing their income.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Berber rugs are beautiful and give a home a wonderful boho vibe. They are hard-wearing and last a lifetime. It’s important when visiting Marrakech to make sure you’re purchasing a genuine Berber rug. There are a few scams, so be mindful. Before you get taken to a shop where you’re promised the best quality and price, do your research.

    Les Nomads de Marrakech has a great reputation and can ship rugs back home for you. This is their address, Bennahid #40 Derb Zaouiat Lahdar, Marrakesh 40030, Morocco.

    Dar Bouchaib in the Kasbah is a fixed price store that also ships rugs worldwide and has a huge selection.

    To find out more about the history of Berber rugs, there is a carpet museum in the souks called The Maison Culturelle du Tapis. It’s worth visiting to learn more about how they’re made. They also have some beautiful vintage rugs on display.

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  • Moroccan Mint Tea

    A custom in Morocco.

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    After the painstakingly long queues at Marrakech airport, you finally arrive at your riad. At this point, you’re feeling overwhelmed and dishevelled. The manager gives you the warmest welcome and guides you into the tranquil courtyard. You sit down on colourful cushions, listening to the sound of trickling water. Suddenly, you’re presented with an ornate silver tray containing a teapot and colourful glasses. This is accompanied by a dish of olives and homemade biscuits. You begin to unwind.

    The tea is poured, holding the teapot higher and higher. You watch with amazement as the tea finds its way perfectly into the little glasses. Not a drop is spilt. This is a traditional Morroccan greeting for visitors. The higher up the teapot is held, the more respect the guest is being shown. The tea also becomes aerated, making it cooler to drink.

    The fragrant aroma of fresh mint fills the air around you. Soon, you are feeling relaxed and becoming accustomed to your new surroundings.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    Once you have finished your  tea, the panic of trying to locate the riad disappears as if by magic. The image of dragging your luggage through dark, narrow alleyways starts to become a distant memory.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mint tea is served everywhere in Marrakech. It’s a customary drink that  locals enjoy whilst chatting with their friends in cafes. Drinking mint tea is a central part of Moroccan social life. It is known as atay in Moroccan darija. It is also called ‘Morroccan Whisky’ by the locals in Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The tea is made using gunpowder green tea and spearmint leaves. It is  sweetened with sugar cubes before serving. Moroccans like their tea sweet, so if you don’t, ask to have the sugar cubes separately.

    Moroccan mint tea has many health benefits. It improves digestion, helps to improve oral health, is a natural decongestant, and provides antioxidants that support good mental well-being, skincare, and alertness.

    Fresh mint is sold all around the medina, and the familiar smell is noticeable when you walk past. It’s an aroma you will come across a lot in Marrakech.

    Sipping mint tea overlooking the square from a rooftop terrace is a nice way to experience Marrakech. There is also a tea house that I highly recommend called 1112 Moroccan Tea House. It’s situated in a beautifully restored riad, and it’s the first Moroccan tea house in Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Drinking atay is a big part of Moroccan culture. You will be offered tea in spice shops, in Berber carpet shops, and friendly locals will want to share it with you. It’s practically a ritual in Marrakech.

    You can purchase the pretty glasses in the souks, along with ornate silver teapots. They make perfect gifts for taking home with you.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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