Founded by the Almoravids c. 1070–72, Marrakech’s walled medina grew into a capital of the Maghrib under the Almohads, with landmarks like Koutoubia, Kasbah, and monumental gates. Its souks, riads, and squares—especially Jemaa el‑Fna—sustain living heritage recognized by UNESCO. Ongoing conservation stabilizes pisé walls, manages mobility in narrow lanes, and balances tourism with resident life and intangible traditions.
The Almoravids established Marrakech around 1062–70 as a strategic market and political base. By 1126–27, rammed‑earth (pisé) ramparts replaced earlier thorn stockades. Under the Almohads (1147–1269), the city reached an imperial apex: the Koutoubia Mosque’s minaret set a model for North African towers, while new gates, gardens, and waterworks reshaped the urban landscape.
The 19–20 km circuit of ramparts, over 9 m high and ~2 m thick, is punctuated by monumental babs (gates) whose bent entries control access. Subterranean khettara galleries and surface seguias distributed water to mosques, hammams, gardens, and houses; cisterns and fountains formed vital public infrastructure.
Within the walls lies a fine grain of quarters (haras) and specialized souks—leather, metalwork, spices, carpets—organized near the spine from Jemaa el‑Fna to Ben Youssef. Mixed residential and craft activity creates continuity from day to night, with seasonal peaks around holidays and festivals.
Traditional homes cluster rooms around an inward‑looking courtyard garden, tempering climate and preserving privacy. Zellij tilework, carved cedar, and stucco relief define elite riads; simpler dars use limewash and timber. Many have become guesthouses, raising both resources for conservation and pressures on neighbors.
The main square shifts from daytime passage and stalls to an evening theater of storytellers, musicians, acrobats, and food sellers. UNESCO recognizes the square’s intangible heritage; policies now prioritize safety, sanitation, stall regulation, and performer protection.
Rammed earth requires cyclical maintenance: sacrificial lime plasters, capillary breaks, and careful roof drainage reduce erosion. Vibration from traffic, informal penetrations, and unregulated signage threaten façades. Conservation programs combine wall stitching, gate restoration, and crafts training to retain authenticity.
Narrow alleys limit vehicles; pedestrian priority coexists with essential deliveries, carts, bikes, and limited two‑wheelers. Wayfinding, waste collection logistics, and emergency access are continuous challenges in a dense, historic network.
Walk early or late for cooler air and softer light on the red‑ochre walls. Pair souks with landmarks—Koutoubia, Ben Youssef, Bahia, Saadian Tombs—and schedule an evening at Jemaa el‑Fna. Modest dress and respectful photography build good rapport.
