The history of Marrakech

Morocco gets its name from Marrakech. The ancient Arab researchers were called Marrakech Mraksch ("the city"). This name has been gradually modified (Moroco, MaRueco, ...), then used for the whole country.

Before 1000 years Marrakech was only a camp of caravans. Abu Bekr, leader of the ALmoravids, has recognized this place as an excellent camp for his troops. In 1062, Yusuf Ibn Tashfin (Abou Bekr's cousin) built the first mosque and houses.

From him come the huge palm groves (palm grove), which can still be seen in the north-east of the city.

This was the starting point to conquer the whole country, pushing as far as Andalusia. He made Marrakech the capital of his empire.

The city was gradually enlarged by the Almoravids (under Ali son of Yousuf), the Almohads (under Abd el Moumen, 12th century), then by Abu Yakoub Youssuff and Yakoub el Mansour. From the Almoravid period, only the 9 km ramparts were preserved.

The successive sultans having destroyed the palaces of their predecessors, only vestiges of the Almohad period remain. From them come the gates of the city and the famous minaret of the Koutoubia mosque.

The Merinid dynasty that followed remained briefly in the city, choosing Fez as capital.

When the Saadites came to power under Ahmed El Arj, Marrakech became capital again in the 16th century. Among the many buildings still preserved from this period are the tombs adorned with Saad. They were only rediscovered in 1917, the main entrance having been walled under the orders of the Alouite Sultan Moulay Ismail.

From the Alouite comes only the palace of Bahia. This gives an excellent impression of the luxurious life of the old leaders.

After the invasion of the French in 1912, Morocco was ruled by the friendly French Pasha El Glaoui. He has gained many benefits by working with them. With their help, he defeated the insurgent Berber tribes. He has become one of the richest and most influential men in Morocco.

When King Mohammed V ascended the throne in 1956, his power was over. Three years later, the hated pasha died and his property was confiscated by the state.

From him come many buildings, such as Dar Glaoui Telouet, where was the headquarters of the clan Glaoui. Here, you have an overwhelming impression of the old power of Pacha.

The souks are located on squares, in streets or in the medina. Craftsmen manufacture cauldrons, candlesticks, lanterns, trays, teapots, vases ... The bazaars are full of colorful products from top to bottom ... There are appetizing puff pastries, stuffed croissants, dates ... Here are rows of Djellabah men on mechanical sewing machines. The soft wool stacked up there; a glass of hot tea with peppermint was poured; the oriental perfume of spices and pickles in the souk of the grocer penetrates our nostrils; the bright colors of wool offered in the dyer's souk magically attract our eyes; salty sputum (Mergez) and baked goods with honey give you a feeling of hunger; the murmur of the crowd and the muffled sound of the tools arrive ... Lost in the maze of alleys, stairs, passages, vaults and dead ends, discovering a fascinating world carefully guarded. Anyone who walks in the many souks can do this or something sim