As there is so much to see, here’s another post devoted to the bustling port town of Essaouira. The town fish market is a traditional, but very smelly, sight that assaults the senses!! All this photography is making me hungry so a quick fuel stop. This colourful dye shop grabs my eye. I’m a fanContinue reading “A seaside souk”
Author Archives: Derbyshire Gal
Essaouira
Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, is a historical port city in Morocco’s Marrakesh-Safi region. Occupied since prehistoric times, it features a sheltered bay and a fishing community with blue boats. Established in the 18th century by King Mohammed III, Essaouira boasts diverse architecture and a vibrant medina with unique crafts.
Argon oil
We’re heading to the seaside resort of Essaouira now. Hopping on a small group tour to make the journey from Marrakech. Naturally this always includes some stops along the way – it is obligatory! First off we visit an women’s argon oil co-operative to see how they extract the oil for cosmetics and cooking. There’sContinue reading “Argon oil”
Dyed wool delights
We stumbled upon this glorious rainbow of a street just outside the Ben Youssef madrasa. Wool of every feasible colour is draped from wires high across the street, while bundles of vivid jewel bright yarn and textiles are piled in every corner. I was a little giddy with the joy of it all!! Enjoy thisContinue reading “Dyed wool delights”
Ben Yousef madrasa
Next up is a visit to the stunning Ben Yousef madrasa with its beautiful tile work and ornate architectural details. The medersa was erected by Sultan Abdullah Al-Ghaleb Assaadi between 1564 and 1565 and remained for four centuries a bastion for scholars. It was an intellectual hub in Morocco for centuries. Students from all overContinue reading “Ben Yousef madrasa”
Street scenes
The route to Jardin Majorelle offers a glimpse into local life, away from tourist spots. As residents shop for fresh fruit and enjoy coffee at roadside cafes, the atmosphere is lively. The streets provide shade with woven wood, enhancing the experience, especially for those needing a caffeine boost.
Jardin Majorelle
The Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh, created by Jacques Majorelle, is a one-hectare botanical masterpiece featuring a Cubist villa by Paul Sinoir. Opened to the public in 1947, it was revitalized by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé in 1980, showcasing over 300 plant species amidst vibrant architecture.
Market mayhem.
There is so much to see in Marrakech’s vibrant souks that this post is just dedicated to the many photos I took! The old medina is roughly divided up into various trades, although there is a lot of overlap. Here are a few of them. The metal workers market. The pungent, colourful spice markets. SoContinue reading “Market mayhem.”
Marrakech markets
Our first full day in Marrakech was spent simply aclimatising to the hustle and bustle, exploring and wandering the myriad of labyrinthian streets that make up the old medina. This blast to the senses is completely overwhelming at first, with stall holders calling out to you, cats streaking between your feet and the ubiquitous motorbikesContinue reading “Marrakech markets”
Magical Marrakech
I have been wanting to visit Marrakech for a very long time, seduced by the promise of colourful markets piled high with spices, textiles and ceramics. Being obsessed with all things vivid, bustling and hectic we were in for a treat – a chaotic treat, but a treat non the less! I have to admitContinue reading “Magical Marrakech”