Le Jardin Secret (The Secret Garden), Marrakech (must see)

The Secret Garden, tucked within the heart of Marrakech’s medina, is a serene historic complex that traces its origins back several centuries. The site was once part of a grand Saadian-era palace from the 16th century, built for powerful local dignitaries when Marrakech flourished as an imperial capital. After the fall of the Saadian dynasty, the estate changed hands multiple times and was repeatedly rebuilt, most notably during the 19th century when it became a refined aristocratic residence. Over time, the property fell into neglect, hidden behind high walls and largely forgotten until a major restoration project in the early 21st century brought it back to life and opened it to the public.

Today, The Secret Garden offers a peaceful contrast to the lively crowds of the surrounding souks. Its charm lies in its two distinct garden spaces, each reflecting traditional Islamic landscape design. As you step through the glass doors of the main entrance, you are first met by the shade of the smaller garden. This is the Exotic Garden, which features rare species from around the world—succulents, palms, and tropical plants—working together to create an intimate, almost hidden-oasis atmosphere. The larger Islamic Garden can be reached by walking along a narrow path to the right of a red pavilion, which is easily visible while exploring the Exotic Garden. The Islamic Garden follows a geometric layout inspired by Quranic descriptions of paradise, divided by pathways and fed by a historic hydraulic system that once supplied water to the palace. Shaded by olive trees, cypresses, and fruit trees, it showcases native Moroccan plants arranged with elegant symmetry.

Architectural elements also enrich the space. Restored pavilions located at both ends of the main garden display intricate zellige tilework, carved cedar, and elegant wooden balconies typical of 19th-century Moroccan mansions. Last but not least, a view from the tall tower on the western edge of the main garden brings everything into a single frame. As you enter the Islamic Garden, the tower appears to the right of the space’s far end. Second only to the Koutoubia Minaret in height, it offers one of the medina’s best panoramic viewpoints, with sweeping views of red rooftops, nearby minarets, and the distant silhouette of the Atlas Mountains.