Sunday, January 1, 2012

Exploring the Heritage of Marrakech

Located in the central part of the North African country of Morocco, Marrakech is the fourth largest city in the country. It is filled with a history that dates back to its founding in 1062 by Sultan Youssef ben Tachfine.
School trips to Marrakech will teach eager students how this once imperial city sits at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, which is the highest mountain range in North Africa, and has a variety of flora and fauna that are indigenous to the area. While you are in the city, you can experience a huge range of history and culture and should take the time to explore the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque and the Medina of Marrakech. To relax, head to the Majorelle Garden to see some of the city's plant life.
Ali Ben Youssef Mosque - School trips to Marrakech will undoubtedly include a visit to the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in the city. It was built in the 12th century, by the Almoravid Sultan Ali inb Yusuf (who ruled from 1106-1142 and expanded the city greatly), and over the subsequent centuries has been rebuilt and re-structured several times. The surviving mosque is a highlight of the Merenid style of architecture, which was brought over by the Spaniards and represents quintessential Moroccan architectural style. The Ali Ben Youssef Mosque is attached to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, which was an Islamic college that was founded during the 14th century and closed in 1960. In 1982, the site was reopened to the public as a historical site.
Medina of Marrakech - Generally known as the old, historic centre of the city, the Medina of Marrakech is an area that must not be missed by students on school trips to the city. In 1895 the Medina was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site for 'Outstanding Universal Value', which can be seen in the vast array of architecture, monuments, and residential buildings that date from the period of the city's founding. While in the Medina, be sure to see the Koutoubia Mosque - which is an important icon of Muslim architecture - the Kasbah, the ramparts, gates, Badiâ Palace, and the les Saâdians tomb, before you leave the Old City. Later, in the evening, stroll around the old city and soak in the atmosphere of Moroccan nightlife, and experience part of the culture of the city which has persevered throughout the centuries.
Marjorelle Garden - Designed by Frenchman Jacques Marjorelle during the 1920s and 30s, the 12-acre botanical garden located to the west of the city is a perfect place to spend an afternoon on your school trips to Marrakech. The garden has been open to the public since 1947, and since 1980 it has been owned by Yves St Laurent and Pierre Bergé. In addition to housing the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech, the Marjorelle Garden is home to 15 species of birds that are endemic to North Africa, which you may get the chance to see while visiting the gardens.

1 comment:

  1. Marrakech which is also known as Ochre City is a great travel destination. Thanks for sharing this important details about experiencing the heritage of Marrakech. I will try to plan a trip to this place very soon.



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