subject: Marrakech, the Jewel of Morocco's South [print this page] Marrakech, the Jewel of Morocco's South Marrakech, the Jewel of Morocco's South
Morocco has been the subject of many travelers imaginations for generations now, with well-deserved associations with mystery, romance, and intrigue. Its popularity as a major destination for world explorers was sealed with the iconic film, Casablanca, where Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart's tragic love story worked its way into the landscape of dreams for millions. The city to the south, Marrakech, found new visitors, who make it a vastly popular spot to this day. Marrakech is one of the major cultural centers in the region, and is a major tourist destination in the country Morocco. Because of the popularity of the film, many travelers to Marrakech also include Casablanca on their itineraries.
Marrakech does have a thriving cultural scene, and a reputation as a progressive city with a lot to offer in terms of world culture. Its dynamic and diverse history also contributes to making it a very attractive destination. It's in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, and is the capital of the southwestern region. These same mountains have a way of providing an atmosphere of protection, as well as mystery, with their snowy caps watching over the city at all times. They play a substantial role in the cultural heritage of the city, and also have a very special spiritual significance.
The city has an old fortified establishment called a medina, which is typical of other North African cultural centers. The main draw, however, is Gueliz, the contemporary center of the city. There are over a million residents to populate the city and fill its traditional market. This is the largest market of its kind in the country, and plays a big role in the daily life of the city. The city's square, Djeema el Fna, is one of the busiest centers in the world, and serves as a major hub of local culture and activity. Dancers, musicians and acrobats work to delight the huge crowds that gather here, making it a great place for local culture as well as people watching. At night, the square transforms itself into one huge open air restaurant, as the food stalls begin to open up for the evening meal. Locals and guests in Marrakech can experience a large dose of life in this one area, making it an enormously popular spot for anyone coming to the city.
Travelers arrive at the Menara International Airport in Marrakech. You can easily get to your Marrakech hotel or, from here, there is a train that heads north to Casablanca, for those who wish to visit there as well.
