Marrakech Panorama

This morning after a relaxing breakfast in our riad, we walked around to the Palais de la Bahia which was begun by Grand Vizier Si Moussa in the 1860s and embellished from 1894 to 1900 by slave-turned-vizier Abu ‘Bou’ Ahmed. It was intended to be the finest building in the world, and took a legion of master craftsmen shipped in from Fez to complete. After the hustle and bustle of the nearby streets, this is such a beautiful and tranquil spot to spend a few hours.

Once inside you are directed by arrows on the wall which take you through a succession of rooms and courtyards. The interiors have some stunning wood carving, stucco work, stained glass, ornate ceilings and it gives you a good idea of Moorish architecture. It reminded me of the Alhambra Palace in Grenada.

This afternoon I went out on my own and walked up to the north of the medina to see an excellent photographic exhibition of life in morocco around the late 18th century and early 19th century. I then visited the terrace for a mint tea and some moroccan pastries.

View from the terrace of the Maison de la Photographie looking towards the Mosquee Ben Salah and the snow capped Atlas Mountains in the distance.

This evening we had dinner just around the corner at Le Tanjia. This is a beautiful and very stylish restaurant with flickering candles and intimate dining booths. Definitely makes it an ideal spot for a cosy tête-à-tête.

The lamb tajines were delicious and the service was excellent.