A look at Islamic architecture and craftsmanship.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Sound Of The Souks 