Before being severely damaged in the earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8, Marrakech was known as the heart of this North African country with all its unique and charming features.
Let's take a look back at what it was like before it all fell apart, and find out if it's safe to travel to Morocco now.
It is no coincidence that Marrakech (Marrakesh) is called the "soul", the "heart", the "ruby" of Morocco. The land with its characteristic colorful architecture is called the "red city", and is the most famous tourist destination of this kingdom. Formed in 1062, Marrakech has an ancient citadel over 1,000 years old, with red sandstone buildings built from 1122 - 1123. This ancient citadel is also known as the medina, charming with bustling maze-like markets. The smell of spices, bread, cakes, jams, the smell of leather from the tanneries, the smell of grilled lamb... blend together in a somewhat mysterious atmosphere.
Marrakech seems to bring a feeling of “overload”, but is extremely suitable for those who love the hustle and bustle, freedom, and prefer to get lost rather than follow a well-planned plan. Above all, the deeper you go, weaving through the small alleys that are only for one person, with high red walls on both sides, visitors seem to step into another world, with each turn containing a precious gem, and through that, see more clearly the multifaceted beauty of this city, from its thousand-year history, architectural wonders, cultural heritage, charming culinary arts and the surprisingly friendly people here.
The city boasts iconic architectural wonders such as the awe-inspiring Koutoubia Mosque. Towering over the skyline, this magnificent structure is a testament to the city’s religious devotion and intricate design. The mosque was also badly damaged during the September 8 earthquake.
The Majorelle Garden, created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, is another cultural gem. With its vibrant green buildings and exotic botanical wonders, this peaceful oasis offers a respite from the bustling city outside. The Majorelle Garden has been named one of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
Mysterious Medina
The ancient city of Marrakech – the mystical medina – is home to many museums and art galleries, where the traditional carpet weaving tradition is recreated.
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The narrow alleys create a space like a fairy tale.
From ceramics, textiles, lamps to jewelry, visitors will be immersed in the beauty and diversity of Moroccan craftsmanship. These ancient and mysterious features inspired Hollywood filmmakers when recreating the setting for the live-action Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.
One of the experiences that is hard to find elsewhere but only in Marrakech is when visitors can feel this city with their sense of smell. The strong scent of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, saffron, the smell of date jam, raisins, the smell of freshly baked cakes, the smell of salted olive barrels, the smell of leather in the tannery... Wandering through the ancient city, breathing in the characteristic air, and sometimes, even talking to local vendors, visitors feel like they are walking into a thousand-year-old fairy tale. And don't be too surprised when you see cobras in the old town. Maybe they are resting, waiting for the time to perform to the music of trumpeters and drummers.
Attractive cuisine
Traditional Moroccan cuisine can be found in Marrakech itself, whether in small street stalls or in fine dining restaurants. It is a tantalizing blend of flavours and spices that invites visitors to indulge in a culinary adventure. From savoury tagines to aromatic couscous, from roasted lamb to pastries, each dish tells a story of Moroccan culinary traditions passed down through the generations.
Marrakech is a city that captivates all who visit. Maybe that love does not come quickly and passionately, but enough for each visitor to love this land more when leaving. As someone once said, Marrakech, with its charm, adds a little bit of mysterious magic, creating a spell, so that people come and go but still forever miss this land.
Should I go to Marrakech and travel to Morocco at this time?
Marrakech was only 72 km from the epicenter of the earthquake late on September 8. As a result, the city is currently suffering severe consequences, with buildings damaged and collapsed. Most of the damage was in the central area (the medina). Many people are concerned about the safety of traveling to Morocco at this time. Rescue efforts are ongoing and if your travel plans involve Marrakech, it is best to check with local authorities and local tours. In general, the old town of Marrakech is in a rescue zone, so visitors should not venture there for the next few weeks. However, as a city that thrives on tourism, visitors will certainly be welcome once it meets the necessary safety and reasonable conditions.
According to The Sunday Times, the beautiful coastal city of Essaouira, nearly a three-hour drive from Marrakech, is a day trip from Marrakech that was not badly affected. Other major cities and popular tourist destinations such as Casablanca, Rabat, Fes and Tangier were not affected by the earthquake. The rest of Morocco was largely unaffected, so you may want to consider your trip based on local travel advice.
According to Vietnamnet