day 8

Marrakech is considered to be one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Morocco and boasts a spectacular location surrounded by farmland and snow-capped mountains, including the highest peak in North Africa that rises to 14,000 feet. As we begin our visit this morning, we will discover an exciting mix of modern architecture and an old walled medina. We will first stop at the Koutoubia Mosque with its 282-foot minaret, an architectural landmark dating from the late 12th century. We will then enter the Kasbah from the Bab Agnaou gate to visit the historic and beautifully ornate 16th century Saadian necropolis. Our walk through the 12th century Kasbah and its food market, bakeries and narrow streets will lead us to the Badii Palace built in the 16th century. Here we will admire the wonderful pulpit of the Koutoubia mosque made in 1137 in the city of Córdoba by the best cabinetmakers of the time. We will continue to the 19th century Bahia Palace and discover the intricate work carried out by local artisans to decorate this splendid house built by a powerful vizier for his harem. We will end our exploration with a walk through the Jewish quarter and visit the historic synagogue built in 1492 by Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain. After a break for lunch, we will be guided through the "hidden sides of Marrakech", where we will admire the architectural beauty of Medersa Ben Youssef, a medieval theological school dating back to the 16th century and the oldest building in the city called Koubba. of the Almoravids, a dynasty that ruled in the 12th century. From there, we will start exploring the artisan neighborhoods and colorful souks to interact with the real life of the people of Marrakech. Before sunset we will be strolling through the square for which the city is so famous, Jemaa El Fna, where hundreds of locals and tourists come to spend the end of the day watching jugglers, dancers, fortune tellers, storytellers and traditional musicians.

Night at Mamounia