Marrakech Medina (Old City), Marrakech (must see)

The oldest sector of Marrakech is the Medina, encircled by protective walls. Entry into this district is via one of numerous gateways, and it boasts a wealth of age-old wonders to be explored, promising an enchanting experience.

Marrakech's Medina is a UNESCO site, a vibrant historic market with a fortified city. It's a bustling African hub for commerce and tourism, backed by King Mohammed VI's goal to attract 20 million visitors by 2020.

Within the Medina, you'll encounter at least eight principal historical gates: Bab Doukkala, Bab el-Khemis, Bab ad-Debbagh, Bab Aylan, Bab Aghmat, Bab er-Robb, Bab el-Makhzen, and Bab el-'Arissa. These gateways trace back to the 12th century during the Almoravid era, although many have been subject to modifications since then.

In the time before the rise of the Almoravid Dynasty, the capital of present-day Morocco was situated in Aghmat, now an archaeological site located 30 km from Marrakech. Following the Almoravides' conquest of the city in 1062 and their establishment of rule, their leader Abou Bakir ibn Umar sought to create a new capital.

Two rival cities vied to be the new capital, with ibn Umar choosing a plain near the River Tensift to prevent further rivalry. By 1070, the new capital emerged, adorned with palm trees, orange groves, and houses along alleys. Fearing rival tribes like the Almohades, the sultan built a defensive wall around the city.

The Almohades ultimately captured the Medina in 1147, resulting in the destruction and subsequent reconstruction of numerous splendid edifices to align with the new dynasty's vision. The Medina retained its status as Morocco's capital until the fall of the Almohad Dynasty in 1269. It once again held the capital designation between the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as in 1792.

The city's expansion occurred organically beyond the confines of the Medina. Here, remnants of ancient palaces, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the renowned Saadian Tombs still stand, testifying to the grandeur of the Moroccan Empire.