subject: Exploring The Architecture Of Morocco [print this page] From the magnificent Kasbahs to the tiled riads, Morocco has a proud architectural heritage. With influences from all across the Arab world and as far afield as France, Spain and Portugal, Moroccan architecture blends the boldly exotic with more delicate European tastes and all across the country its possible to encounter monumental city gates rising from the terracotta earth alongside glittering minarets and striking art deco town houses, painted in vibrant primary hues.
To see some of the grandest examples of Moroccos architecture, travel north and take advantage of the excellent hotel deals in Fes. The one-time capital is home to two exceptionally grand mosques: the Andalous Mosque, with its impressive northern door, and the renowned Kairaouine Mosque, the second largest in the country. Both founded in the 9th century by sisters from the Tunisian al-Fihri family, the mosques exhibit fine cedar-wood carvings, exquisite Spanish-style tiling and decorated minarets. As well as architectural flair, the Kairaouine Mosque also boasts superb views, making it especially worthy of a visit. However, its worth noting that neither of the mosques admits non-Muslims, so you may have to admire from afar.
The Nejjarine Museum in Fes, housed within a traditional funduq, is a must for architecture aficionados. A once-popular building style featuring accommodation above workshops for travelling tradesmen, many of these architectural gems have now fallen into disrepair. The carved woodwork in this 18th-century example, however, has been carefully restored and the fascinating museum offers a wealth of antique carpentry tools and exceptional carved woodwork as well as a rooftop cafe.
Morocco is famous for its riads and, with over 1000 surviving examples, Marrakech is the city to choose for a taste of this unique architectural style. Decorated in the Arabesque style, riads are typically inward looking with the living quarters looping around a quiet courtyard, creating a cool and tranquil oasis away from the Djemaa el-Fna. Authentic, luxurious and bejewelled with colourful Moroccan tiles known as zellij, its no wonder that many riads have now been converted into surprisingly palatial hotels. Check in for the chance to examine the detailed craftsmanship and long-established architecture.
In a land best known for its ancient architecture, modern design still holds sway in the coastal city of Casablanca, where the elegant splendour of Art Deco architecture melds beautifully with gentle arches and towering columns. Take up one of the superb hotel deals in Casablanca, Moroccos largest city and home to the worlds tallest minaret, and take advantage of the pleasant climate while you stroll around the Art Deco Wilaya (administrative centre), with its stark white walls and tropical courtyard garden. If your trip only takes you as far as Marrakech, be sure to visit the Jardin Majorelle and its Art Deco Islamic Art Museum, painted in striking cobalt-blue. Open to the public every day, these celebrated gardens were once owned by fashion god, Yves Saint-Laurent, and are now a shady paradise when the suns rays get too strong.
