Marrakech history

Foundation and First Mentions

Marrakech was founded in the second half of the 11th century, approximately between 1062 and 1070, and became the capital of the powerful Almoravid dynasty. The city's founders are considered to be the leaders of the Berber movement, Abu Bakr ibn Umar and his cousin Yusuf ibn Tashfin, who transformed this site into a flourishing imperial centre. The name "Marrakech" itself presumably derives from the Berber words "amur (n) akuch", which means "Land of God". Over time, the European name for the entire country—Morocco—originated from the name of this city.

Key Factors of Development

The rapid growth and rise of Marrakech were driven by several strategic factors:

• Geographical Location: Situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, the city became a natural "gateway" between the north of the country and the rich trade routes leading through the Sahara. This allowed for the control of caravans and trade.
• Trade Hub: Thanks to its location, Marrakech quickly turned into one of the most important commercial, cultural, and religious centres of the Maghreb. Goods, artisans, and scholars flocked here from across the empire, including Andalusia (Spain).
• Political Centre: Its status as the capital under several great dynasties—the Almoravids, the Almohads, and later the Saadians—ensured the city's constant development, with the construction of palaces, mosques, and fortifications.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Marrakech was formed as a city with a unique appearance. It came to be called the "Red City" due to the characteristic reddish-pink hue of its clay walls and buildings. The founders established not only powerful fortifications but also a complex irrigation system (khettara) that supplied water to the famous gardens and the vast palm grove. The city's economy flourished through trans-Saharan trade, as well as thanks to skilled artisans creating leather goods, carpets, and ceramics. Marrakech became a melting pot of Arab, Berber, and Andalusian cultures, which was reflected in its architecture, music, and traditions.

Key Dates in the History of Marrakech

The history of Marrakech spans nearly a millennium. During this time, it has been the capital of great empires, a vital trade hub, and a cultural centre, experiencing periods of prosperity and decline. Below is a timeline of the major events that shaped the appearance and spirit of this amazing city.

• c. 1070 — Foundation of the city by the leader of the Almoravid dynasty, Abu Bakr ibn Umar, who laid the foundations of the future imperial capital.
• 1120s — Construction of the first city walls for protection against the growing influence of the Almohad movement.
• 1147 — Conquest of Marrakech by the Almohads, who made it the capital of their vast empire and began the construction of the famous Koutoubia Mosque.
• 1269 — The city comes under the control of the Marinid dynasty, who move the capital to Fes, after which Marrakech loses its capital status for several centuries.
• 1525 — Marrakech is captured by the Saadian dynasty, who begin the city's revival.
• 1554 — The city once again becomes the capital of a unified Morocco under the Saadians, entering its "Golden Age".
• 1578 — Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur begins the construction of the magnificent El Badi Palace in honour of the victory in the "Battle of the Three Kings".
• Late 17th century — The Alaouite dynasty captures Marrakech; Sultan Moulay Ismail orders the dismantling of the El Badi Palace, using its materials to build his new capital in Meknes.
• 1912 — Marrakech becomes part of the French protectorate in Morocco; construction of the new European district, Gueliz, begins.
• 1917 — The abandoned Saadian Tombs are accidentally discovered and opened to the public, subsequently becoming one of the main attractions.
• 1956 — Morocco gains independence, and Marrakech becomes part of the new kingdom.
• 1985 — The Medina (old city) of Marrakech is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, confirming its outstanding cultural value.
• 2001 — Jemaa el-Fnaa square is recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Stages of Transformation: From Imperial Capital to Global Tourism Hub

The history of Marrakech is a kaleidoscope of ups and downs, where each period left an indelible mark on its architecture, culture, and economy. The city became the capital of great empires several times, experienced oblivion, and was reborn again, eventually transforming into one of the most attractive tourism centres in the world. Let us consider the key milestones of its development.

• Foundation and Establishment (11th–12th centuries): The city was founded by the Almoravid dynasty around 1070 as the capital of their vast empire. During this period, the foundations of urban planning were laid: a unique underground irrigation system (khettara) was created to supply water to the gardens and the famous palm grove, and the first city walls were erected. Marrakech quickly became a key trade hub on the route of trans-Saharan caravans.
• Flourishing under the Almohads (12th–13th centuries): After conquering the city in 1147, the Almohad dynasty began massive construction that defined the architectural appearance of Marrakech for centuries. The main symbol of this era became the Koutoubia Mosque, whose majestic minaret still dominates the Medina. The city strengthened its status as the cultural, religious, and political centre of the Maghreb.
• The "Golden Age" of the Saadian Dynasty (16th century): After a period of decline when the capital was moved to Fes, Marrakech experienced a second birth under the Saadians. The city once again became the capital and reached the peak of its magnificence. During this time, masterpieces such as the luxurious El Badi Palace and the dynastic mausoleum—the Saadian Tombs—were built.
• The French Protectorate Era (1912–1956): This period brought radical urban planning changes. Outside the old Medina, a new European district was built—Gueliz, with wide boulevards, modern infrastructure, and Art Deco architecture. This created a unique contrast between the ancient and the new city, which remains to this day.
• Transformation into a Tourism Capital (Second half of the 20th century – Present): After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Marrakech began to actively develop as an international tourism centre. The recognition of its cultural significance by the global community—the inclusion of the Medina (1985) and Jemaa el-Fnaa square (2001) in the UNESCO World Heritage list—significantly accelerated this process. Today, the city's economy relies heavily on tourism, attracting travellers with its exoticism, rich history, and developed infrastructure.

The architectural appearance of Marrakech is living history captured in stone, clay, and exquisite ornaments. The city was shaped under the influence of great Berber and Arab dynasties, as well as European trends, creating a unique blend of styles. From the monumental structures of the Middle Ages to the elegance of the colonial era, each epoch has left its unique mark.

The Almoravid and Almohad Era (11th–13th Centuries): Birth of the Imperial Style

The city's founders, the Almoravids, established its characteristic look by beginning construction with reddish clay (tadelakt), earning Marrakech the nickname "The Red City". However, the true architectural flourishing occurred during the Almohad era. The main achievement of this period was the Koutoubia Mosque, the standard of the strict and elegant Almohad style. Its famous 77-metre minaret served as the prototype for the Giralda tower in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. This style is characterised by monumentality, clean lines, horseshoe arches, and restrained yet harmonious decor.

The Saadian "Golden Age" (16th Century): Luxury and Refinement

The Saadian dynasty returned the capital status to Marrakech and marked a new era in its architecture, emphasising luxury and the display of wealth. The brightest examples of this period are:

• El Badi Palace: Once one of the most magnificent palaces in the Islamic world, known as "The Incomparable". The most expensive materials were used for its construction: Italian marble, Indian onyx, and gold. Although only majestic ruins remain today, their scale allows one to judge its former splendour.
• Saadian Tombs: This mausoleum, hidden for centuries, amazes with the incredible fineness of its finishing. Here one can see skilful cedar carving, intricate zellij mosaic patterns, and stucco (gypsum) mouldings, demonstrating the pinnacle of Moorish decorative art.

French Protectorate (Early 20th Century): European Modernism

In 1912, with the establishment of the French protectorate, the urban development of Marrakech took a new path. Outside the old Medina, a new district was built—Gueliz. It was designed by architect Henri Prost, creating a city in the European style with wide boulevards, squares, and buildings in the Art Deco and modernist styles. This created a unique contrast between the labyrinths of the ancient Medina and the ordered structure of the new city, which is visible even today.

Modernity: Synthesis of Tradition and Innovation

Modern architecture in Marrakech strives to harmoniously combine historical heritage with new trends. Many new hotels, villas, and public spaces are inspired by traditional Moroccan architecture, using elements such as internal courtyard-riads, zellij mosaics, and carved wooden details in a modern interpretation. This allows the city to develop without losing its unique flavour and atmosphere of an oriental tale.

Distinguished Figures in the History of Marrakech

For centuries, Marrakech has been not only a political and cultural centre but also a home or point of attraction for many distinguished personalities. Rulers, scholars, artists, and writers have left their mark on the history of the city, shaping its unique appearance and heritage.

• Yusuf ibn Tashfin (c. 1006–1106) — Commander and Emir of the Almoravid dynasty. Considered one of the founders of Marrakech, which he made the capital of his vast empire in the 1070s. His rule laid the foundation for the city's transformation into one of the most important centres of the Maghreb.
• Qadi Ayyad (1083–1149) — One of the most authoritative Islamic scholars and judges (Qadis) of his time. Although he worked in various cities, his legacy is closely linked to Marrakech, where he is buried and where one of the largest universities is named after him.
• Ibn al-Banna al-Marrakushi (1256–1321) — A prominent mathematician and astronomer, born and raised in Marrakech. He wrote dozens of works on various sciences, made a significant contribution to the development of algebra and trigonometry in the Islamic world, and was the first to use the term "almanac" (weather) in a scientific context.
• Ahmad al-Mansur (1549–1603) — Sultan of the Saadian dynasty, whose reign is considered the "Golden Age" of Marrakech. Nicknamed "The Golden One" for his untold wealth, he built the majestic El Badi Palace and turned the city into a centre of luxury, diplomacy, and culture, strengthening its international prestige.
• Jacques Majorelle (1886–1962) — French Orientalist painter. In 1924, he acquired a plot of land in Marrakech and over several decades turned it into the famous botanical garden—the Majorelle Garden. This place, with his villa painted in a unique blue colour ("Majorelle Blue"), became one of the symbols of the city.
• Yves Saint Laurent (1936–2008) — World-renowned French fashion designer. He first visited Marrakech in 1966 and fell in love with its colours and atmosphere. The city became an inexhaustible source of inspiration for him. In 1980, together with Pierre Bergé, he bought and saved the Majorelle Garden from destruction, and his ashes were scattered there.
• Juan Goytisolo (1931–2017) — An influential Spanish writer who spent the last decades of his life in Marrakech. He was a great admirer of Moroccan culture and played a key role in having Jemaa el-Fnaa square recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
• Hassan Hajjaj (born 1961) — A contemporary Moroccan photographer and artist, often called the "Andy Warhol of Marrakech". In his vibrant works, he mixes pop art with traditional Moroccan motifs, creating a unique visual language that celebrates the culture of his hometown.