The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: skilled artisans in Marrakech

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • Medina Mall Marrakech.

    An artisanal mall in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Medina Mall Marrakech is a unique shopping experience in the medina. Inside the mall, you will find a selection of  concept boutiques. These intriguing shops stock cosmetics, pottery, leather goods, traditional textiles, and handcrafted pieces. Local artisans create pieces using age-old techniques reflecting Moroccan heritage.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There are craft shops where you can learn ancient skills from local artisans, including Berber women. Retailers collaborate with local Berber women, giving them their independence and a sustainable livelihood. This allows them to provide for their families and the local community. Everything on sale in Medina Mall promotes eco-conscious craftsmanship. In turn, this supports local communities, including women’s cooperatives.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In addition to a selection of shops selling high-quality products, there are a number of restaurants located in Medina Mall. Fluffys, the popular international dessert restaurant, is on the first floor.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Medina Mall offers a relaxed shopping experience. The English speaking saleswomen ensure an easy shopping experience for tourists. Visitors can choose from handcrafted pieces by local artisans or contemporary items. The mall sells a range of high-quality products not found in the souks. It’s a good place to purchase souvenirs and grab a bite to eat. You may even learn a few ancient crafting techniques during your visit

    The address for Medina Mall is Arsat Maach, 91 Hommane Fetouaki Marrakech 40000 Morocco. Opening times are 9.00 am until 1.00 am daily.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex.

    Visit a fixed price arts and craft centre in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is a government sponsored initiative for skilled artisans.

    A short walk away from Jamaa El Fna, opposite Cyber Park, is this unique space in Marrakech. Within the complex, you will find artisans creating beautiful artwork, including paintings, rugs, and pottery.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It was established for artisans to teach their work to apprentices, and it’s a more low-key shopping experience than the souks. The best artisans are picked to work here, and there is usually only one or two representing each speciality, unlike in the souks. There are wonderful examples of excellent craft work, including brass and copper crafts, lamps, leather work, musical instruments, and much more..

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Prices are fixed, and all the profit goes to the artisans.

    Shopping in this fascinating area gives you an idea of how much you should be charged for items in the souks. Some things here are slightly pricer, but you don’t have to bargain hard, and it’s a more relaxed shopping experience.

    Within the complex is a simple restaurant for food and drinks. It’s a cute waterhole to take a rest and admire the attractive setting. The tiled surroundings of Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex are very beautiful to look at and complimented by small green areas with plants.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is also calligraphy available. If you want a gift for someone, consider getting their name in Arabic printed onto a nice postcard.

    I enjoyed spending a couple of hours away from the hectic pace of the medina. The slow rhythmic tapping of skilled artisans at work was a nice change of pace. Watching the ladies demonstrate carpet weaving on a traditional loom was really interesting, and I was also invited to have a go.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is located on Mohammed V Avenue. It’s about a 6 minute walk from the Jamaa El Fna. The times of opening are 9.30am until 7.00pm, with the exception of Sunday when they close at 2.00pm.

    I found a few lovely paintings to take home with me, which were painted by a local artist and beautifully handcrafted mirrors that caught my eye.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is a perfect respite from the chaos of the medina and a wonderful spot to pick up a few lovely treasures whilst experiencing the local people showcasing their exceptional skills.

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