Explore the majestic beauty and regal wonders of Morocco with a visit to three of the country’s most exquisite palaces. From the opulent Palace of El Badi in Marrakech to the grandeur of the Bahia Palace in the same city, Morocco is full of breathtaking palaces that will leave you in awe. Let us take you on a journey through the country to explore these remarkable structures that you simply can’t miss while in Morocco.
The Royal Palace in Rabat
As the capital city of Morocco, Rabat is home to some of the country’s most impressive palaces, including the Royal Palace. This expansive complex spans over 11 hectares and boasts a striking mix of Islamic and French architectural styles.
Although the Royal Palace is not open to the public, visitors can still admire the intricate façade from the street. The palace’s impressive gate is decorated with golden arabesques and leads to a large courtyard adorned with beautiful mosaics and lush gardens. From there, you can also catch a glimpse of the palace’s towering minaret.
One of the highlights of the Royal Palace is its massive Dar al-Makhzen building, which serves as the official residence of the King of Morocco. This grand structure is adorned with ornate chandeliers, hand-painted tiles, and impressive fountains.
Visitors can also explore the palace’s smaller buildings, including the Harem, the Bathhouse, and the Royal Stables. These structures were used for various functions, such as housing the King’s wives and horses.
Even if you can’t enter the Royal Palace, a visit to Rabat is not complete without admiring this majestic complex from the outside. Its stunning architecture and regal charm are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
The Bahia Palace in Marrakesh
One of the most enchanting palaces in Morocco is the Bahia Palace in Marrakesh. Built in the late 19th century, it was intended to be the grandest palace of its time. It took around 15 years to complete, with the most skilled artisans working on the intricate carvings and mosaics.
Today, the palace is a popular tourist attraction and it is easy to see why. The grand courtyard with its lush gardens and trickling fountains, creates a peaceful oasis amidst the busy city. Visitors can also marvel at the richly decorated rooms, such as the grand hall and the stunning harem quarters.
The palace was designed for Si Moussa, a former slave who rose to become a prominent figure in Moroccan politics. It was later inherited by his son, who made further additions and embellishments to the palace. It was then given as a gift to the favorite concubine of Sultan Abdelaziz, who added her own touches, giving the palace a unique and eclectic style.
Throughout the palace, visitors can appreciate the intricate Moroccan architecture and design. The ornate details and attention to detail make the Bahia Palace one of the most stunning examples of Moroccan craftsmanship.
It’s not just the beautiful interiors that make the palace a must-visit. The surrounding gardens are equally as breathtaking. Visitors can wander through the shaded pathways and discover hidden nooks filled with fragrant flowers and fruit trees. There’s even a small aviary with exotic birds.
Overall, the Bahia Palace is a fascinating insight into Moroccan history and architecture. It is a testament to the incredible skills of the craftsmen who created it and the grand vision of the former owners. Anyone visiting Marrakesh shouldn’t miss the opportunity to experience this regal wonder.
The El Badi Palace in Marrakesh
The El Badi Palace, which translates to the “incomparable palace”, was built in the late 16th century by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. Its grandeur and scale are hard to miss, as the palace once had more than 300 rooms, multiple courtyards, and ornate decorations throughout.
While the palace may not be in its original glory today, its ruins are still a sight to behold. Walking through the remains of the palace, you can imagine what it must have been like when it was still fully intact.
One of the most impressive features of the El Badi Palace is its central courtyard, which is a whopping 135 meters by 110 meters in size. The courtyard is surrounded by towering walls, which were once adorned with intricate mosaics and carvings.
Another highlight of the palace is the Koutoubia minbar, a beautiful wooden pulpit that was used for sermons during the time of the palace’s construction. The minbar was saved from destruction during the demolition of the palace, and now resides in the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh.
Today, the palace is open to visitors, and exploring its ruins is a must-do for anyone interested in Morocco’s history and architecture. There is also a museum on-site that displays artifacts from the palace’s original construction and use.
Overall, the El Badi Palace is a testament to the wealth and power of Morocco’s sultans during the 16th century. Its impressive scale and stunning decorations are sure to leave visitors in awe.
