Marrakech, fondly known as the Red City, mentioned in our blog about “The Red Colours Of Morocco”, is a true architectural gem, blending ancient grandeur with modern innovation. The city’s history spans over a thousand years, shaped by the legacies of Berber and Arab dynasties and influences, and more recently, contemporary Moroccan designers.
This guide will take you on a journey through the fascinating architectural tapestry of Marrakech, from its medieval medinas to cutting-edge modern marvels. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a traveller looking to soak in the beauty of Morocco, these places are a must-see.
Table of Contents
1. Koutoubia Mosque
- Era: 12th Century
- Architecture Style: Almohad Architecture
The Koutoubia Mosque is perhaps Marrakech’s most iconic structure, with its soaring minaret dominating the skyline. Built during the reign of the Almohad Caliphate, the mosque perfectly represents Almohad architecture with its simple geometric lines, grandeur, and balance. Standing at 77 meters high, the minaret can be seen from almost anywhere in the city, making it an unmistakable landmark. The Koutoubia’s stonework and detailing, including its intricate tile work and Arabic inscriptions, give a glimpse into the precision of Islamic architectural design.
While the mosque is not open to non-Muslims, visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and take in the imposing structure from outside.
2. Bahia Palace
- Era: Late 19th Century
- Architecture Style: Moroccan-Andalusian Architecture
Step into the Bahia Palace and you’ll feel as though you’ve wandered into a royal dream. Built-in the late 19th century for the grand vizier Si Moussa, the palace is a stunning example of Moroccan-Andalusian design, a mix of Moroccan, Islamic, and Mediterranean influences.
The palace features an intricate series of courtyards, each filled with lush gardens, fountains, and zellij (colourful Moroccan tiles). The ceilings are adorned with elaborate cedar wood carvings, while stained glass windows cast vibrant colours over the marble floors. Every room and courtyard in Bahia Palace feels like a secluded, ornate sanctuary that whispers of old-world luxury.
3. Ben Youssef Madrasa
- Era: 14th Century
- Architecture Style: Marinid Architecture
As one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa, the Ben Youssef Madrasa is a masterpiece of Islamic artistry. Built during the reign of the Marinid Sultan Abu al-Hassan, it served as a place for students to learn religious and scientific subjects. The architecture is a striking combination of functional design and artistic embellishment.
The madrasa’s central courtyard is the highlight, featuring a large reflecting pool surrounded by intricately carved cedar wood panels, stucco decorations, and classic zellij tile mosaics. Visitors often marvel at the sheer level of craftsmanship in the arabesques and Kufic inscriptions, which show the artistry of the 14th-century artisans.
4. Saadian Tombs
- Era: 16th Century
- Architecture Style: Saadian Architecture
Tucked away behind the Kasbah Mosque, the Saadian Tombs were hidden for centuries before being rediscovered in 1917. Built by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur, this royal necropolis is an awe-inspiring example of Saadian architectural finesse. The tombs are adorned with Italian Carrara marble, elaborate tile work, and carved stucco, showcasing a blend of Moroccan craftsmanship and international influences.
The mausoleum complex is divided into several chambers, but the Hall of Twelve Columns is the most magnificent, housing the tomb of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur himself. The sunlight filtering through the lattice windows casts a serene glow on the elaborate carvings, giving the entire space a sense of timeless tranquillity.
5. Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Era: Early 20th Century (Garden), 2017 (Museum)
- The Majorelle Garden: Jacques Majorelle, a French painter, designed the garden and its striking Art Deco structures.
- Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Studio KO (Olivier Marty and Karl Fournier), a Paris and Marrakech-based architectural firm, known for blending raw, local materials with modern, minimalist design.
- Architecture Style: Art Deco and Contemporary Architecture
The Majorelle Garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, is one of the most visually striking places in Marrakech. The cobalt blue of the garden’s walls, known as “Majorelle Blue,” contrasts sharply with the lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creating a truly unique sensory experience. Majorelle was heavily influenced by the Art Deco style, and the garden reflects a seamless blend of Western and Moroccan design.
Adjacent to the garden is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a testament to modern Moroccan architecture. Opened in 2017, the museum is dedicated to the work of the famed French designer, who had a deep connection with Marrakech. The building itself, designed by Studio KO, is a contemporary masterpiece, with its terracotta façade mimicking woven fabric. Inside, minimalist interiors contrast with rich textures, offering a modern ode to Moroccan craftsmanship.
6. El Badi Palace
- Era: 16th Century
- Architecture Style: Saadian Architecture
Once one of the grandest palaces in the world, El Badi Palace was built by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese in the Battle of the Three Kings. While much of the palace is now in ruins, you can still sense its former grandeur through its vast courtyard, reflecting pools, and sunken gardens.
The original palace was a marvel of opulence, adorned with Italian marble, Sudanese gold, and intricate mosaics. Today, you can wander through the remains, climb the ramparts for a panoramic view of the city, and even visit the palace’s stork sanctuary.
7. La Mamounia Hotel
- Era: 1923 (Original structure), ongoing restorations
- Architect: Henri Prost (original construction); later restorations led by Jacques Garcia, who worked to bring the hotel into modernity while preserving its Art Deco and Moorish influences.
- Architecture Style: Art Deco with Moorish Elements
La Mamounia is more than just a luxury hotel, it’s an architectural icon. Built in the 1920s, the hotel is a perfect fusion of Art Deco style and Moorish influences. With its ornate zellij tile work, elaborate wood carvings, and lush gardens, it feels like stepping into a modern-day palace.
The hotel’s design blends Moroccan traditional elements like horseshoe arches and mosaic tile floors with European sophistication. Even if you’re not staying here, visiting for tea or to explore the gardens is a wonderful way to appreciate its beauty.
8. Royal Mansour
- Era: 21st Century
- Architect: The project was commissioned by King Mohammed VI and brought to life by a vast team of Moroccan artisans and architects. OBM Construction led the overall development, while the design relied heavily on traditional Moroccan craftsmanship (woodworkers, zellij artisans, etc.) and engineers working on modern luxurious amenities.
- Architecture Style: Modern Moroccan Architecture
If you want to see where modern Moroccan architecture meets high-end luxury, Royal Mansour is the place to go. Commissioned by King Mohammed VI, this hotel is a stunning showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship. Every detail, from the hand-carved plaster to the intricate mosaic floors, is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional Moroccan artisanship.
Unlike typical hotels, the Royal Mansour is composed of individual riads (traditional Moroccan houses) with interior courtyards. This design allows for privacy and intimacy, making each stay feel like an escape into your palace.
9. Menara Gardens Pavilion
- Era: 16th Century
- Architecture Style: Saadian-Moorish
Just outside the bustling medina lies the Menara Gardens, a peaceful oasis known for its iconic pavilion and reflection pool. The gardens were initially built during the Almohad dynasty, but the pavilion was added during the Saadian period in the 16th century.
The pavilion’s simplistic design is a departure from the more ornate buildings in the city, with its sloped green-tiled roof and plain walls offering a serene, minimalist beauty. The surrounding olive groves and the Atlas Mountains in the background create a picture-perfect scene that’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.
Additional Modern Architectural Highlights and Restaurants in Marrakech
Beyond its historical monuments, Marrakech is also home to contemporary buildings and restaurants where architecture is an essential part of the experience.
10. Villa E
- Era: 21st Century
- Architects: Studio KO (Olivier Marty and Karl Fournier), who also designed the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Known for their minimalist and raw material aesthetics that respect the landscape and culture they’re designing for.
- Architecture Style: Contemporary Moroccan Architecture
Villa E is a striking example of how traditional Moroccan aesthetics can be beautifully integrated into modern design. Set in the Palmeraie, this contemporary villa plays with light, shadow, and local materials like Tadelakt (polished plaster) and wood, creating a space that feels organic and luxurious. Large windows overlook lush gardens and a serene pool, blending the indoors and outdoors seamlessly. If you’re a fan of sleek, minimalist design with a nod to Moroccan tradition, Villa E is a must-see.
11. Villa Agave
- Era: 21st Century
- Architect: Charles Kaisin, a Belgian architect and designer. Kaisin blends local craftsmanship with modernist principles, creating highly curated, stylish spaces.
- Architecture Style: Modern Moroccan with Art Deco Influence
Villa Agave is another modern architectural marvel, blending traditional Moroccan design with Art Deco influences. The villa features spacious open-plan interiors, with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive outdoor terraces. The interior design includes Moroccan textiles, intricate tile work, and custom-made furniture, offering a luxurious yet relaxed feel. It’s the perfect place for those seeking both style and substance in the heart of Marrakech’s Palmeraie district.
12. Le Jardin Restaurant
- Era: Early 20th Century Building (Renovated)
- Architect/Designer: Anne Favier, a French designer and restorer, is known for keeping Marrakech’s traditional architectural elements intact while injecting modern touches. Le Jardin was restored concerning the traditional riad structure, with Favier adding pops of modernity through contemporary furniture and interior design.
- Architecture Style: Traditional Riads with Modern Touches
Le Jardin is an architectural treasure tucked into the heart of the Marrakech Medina. Located in a restored 20th-century riad, this restaurant offers the perfect blend of old and new. The building retains its traditional layout, with a central courtyard shaded by lush greenery, but modern touches like sleek furniture and bold pops of colour make it feel fresh and inviting. Dining here is a sensory delight, with its striking green tilework, natural light, and Moroccan fusion cuisine.
13. Nomad Restaurant
- Era: 21st Century Renovation
- Architect/Designer: Romain Michel-Meniere, who is a key player in transforming traditional riad spaces into chic, modern venues. He incorporated contemporary minimalism into Nomad while keeping its traditional Moroccan architectural roots.
- Architecture Style: Modern Moroccan Design
For a chic, modern take on Moroccan architecture, head to Nomad. Located in the medina, this contemporary restaurant offers stunning rooftop views alongside a minimalist yet warm interior. Traditional Moroccan elements like earthy tones, zellij tiles, and woven textiles are reinterpreted through a modern lens. The result is a space that feels both comfortable and stylish, a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset while dining on modern Moroccan dishes with a twist.
14. Dar Darma
- Era: 18th Century (Restored in 2000s)
- Restoration Architect: Pietro Lissoni, is a renowned Italian architect and designer known for his minimalist yet elegant interiors. Lissoni infused Dar Darma with modern eclectic touches while preserving the rich, historical details of the riad’s original design.
- Architecture Style: Eclectic Moroccan
Dar Darma is a unique blend of old and new, where traditional Moroccan architecture meets eclectic modern design. This riad, dating back to the 18th century, has been carefully restored and transformed into a boutique guesthouse with dramatic flair. The interiors feature bold colour palettes, antique furnishings, and Moorish arches, with a contemporary twist that makes each room feel like a work of art. It’s an intimate, luxurious retreat where the architecture is as memorable as the stay.
Marrakech is a city where the old and the new meet in spectacular fashion. Whether you’re exploring the historic medinas, dining in a chic modern restaurant, or marvelling at contemporary villas, the city’s architecture offers something for everyone. Each building, whether centuries-old or newly constructed, tells a story of Marrakech’s vibrant past and dynamic present.
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