ART MAURESQUE
“Découvrez le!”
Traditional Moroccan architecture has inherited and absorbed many different historic influences of Muslim art.
The arrival of the Almoravids from Andalusia around 1090 and of the Almohades in the twelfth century created a synthesis between the Berber heritage and the Andalusian civilisation which gave birth to a Spanish-Moorish art form.
New techniques enabled the construction of cupolas and domes. Bricks which had triumphed in Andalusia, appeared in arches and pillars. Berber culture passed on it’s oriental innovations.
All Moorish residences are turned to the interior. Often they don’t even have a window facing outside although some have a sunny patio.
Arabic motifs can be found in global architecture, in mosaics, in zelijues and sculptures in stucco and cedar wood. They are made in geometric, calligraphic and intricate intertwining designs.
These details are co-ordinated in the whole of the architecture of Morocco which has captivated visitors for generations.
Reconnaissance mondiale
Inscribed in 1985
Founded in 1071-1072, Marrakech was the capital of the Almoravides then the Almohades. The lively and busy Medina is the home of a number of impressive major architectural works: the rampart walls and their monumental gateways; the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs; the Badai and Bahia palaces; the gardens and characteristic ancient houses.
Inscribed in 2001
Jemaa El-Fna square dates from the foundation of Marrakech in 1070-1071 and ever since then has been the symbol of the city. For centuries travellers have praised it’s cosmopolitan crowds and it’s vitality.
Jamaa El- Fna square, situated in the heart of the ancient quarter of Marrakech has been recognised as part of the oral ‘patrimony of mankind’ by UNESCO. It is a veritable cultural crossroad, local residents and visitors using it as their central rendezvous. There you will find storytellers, acrobats, musical recitals, traditional dancers and snake charmers.
