Marrakech is a vibrant Moroccan city situated to the west of the great Atlas Mountains. Famous for its old quarter, the Medina, I knew I had to focus my time exploring the gorgeous architecture and bustling markets within the Medina walls. After leaving the comfort of my friends in Agadir, I was anxious and eager to start heading Northwards through the Atlas Mountains to enjoy a couple of days in Marrakech.
The four-hour bus ride was filled with inquisitive conversation and a brief Arabic lesson with my friendly Moroccan neighbour, himself on his way home to Casablanca. The loud intensity of the tightly packed streets and the vibrant colours of the different buildings, paired with the smells of a range of delicious cuisines being cooked up nearby was all an absolute treat for the senses.
After walking a while, we stepped out into the famous Jamaa el Fna market square to see a plethora of market stalls, including one with the widest variety of olives I had ever seen. Continuing our walk by delving into the traditional market streets, the Souks, I was mesmerised by the skills and creativity at some of the stalls.
One man who caught my attention was fashioning chess pieces by operating a complicated looking tool with his feet, and after watching this spectacular show I had to seriously deliberate whether I could fit a hand-crafted chess set into my backpack.
After the impulsive side of me won that battle, we found ourselves outside the unsuspecting Ben Youseff Madrasa. The impressive Madrasa was founded in the 14th century and was a college for theology students up until I was able to explore the tiny meditation and prayer rooms that surround the central courtyard and left with a sense of complete wonder. After a quick food break in a side street by Jamaa el Fna, I was keen to visit a recommendation from a friend, the Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech.
