Ironically, The name Djemaa el fna actually means “Assembly of the Dead”, which is believed to be due to an ancient mosque that was once in existence, now destroyed and buried away deep under the square’s ground. The square is nowadays the antithesis of what its name describes; an open air theatre overwhelming with vitality of the eclectic performers, who vary from astrologers to belly dancers, as well as the crowds of expectant spectators.

What first strikes  you about the evening crowds in that despite the huge number of tourists meandering around the square, the evening is alive with a real feel of Moroccan culture and local character, as local families, couples and friends gather together to take part in the entertainment, watch a show, or have a bite to eat. As a visitor, it is not necessary to dig deep to uncover the cultural traditions that are at play in the Place. Energetic and dynamic acts fill every corner of the square, pulling in an audience to watch, and often take part. Snake charming is also to be found, with the charmers more than ready to wrap their cobra around a tourist’s neck for an impressive holiday snap. For those of wanting a bit of a nighttime rhythm, whirling drumming shows, and acrobats always make for an impressive commotion. After such a spectacle, you can wonder among the little stalls, maybe even pick up something from one of the many apothecaries and alchemists who are selling miracle cures for every ailment, from ageing to a broken heart.

Although a little more subtle than the drumming and performing attractions of the square, a truly magical way to pass an evening is by tracking down the storytellers that reside in the square; the old men who tell ancient Moroccan stories that have been handed down from generation to generation. Known as the ‘halaka’, these bearded men, often with a few teeth missing can be found sitting down, encircled by a mesmerized crowd of onlookers. Not just used as a form of entertainment, the great oral tradition is an ancient way of conveying philosophies, parables and timeless values, told by these men with a sincerity and conviction which is truly spellbinding.

One of the most traditional dishes to be mastered is the Tagine, which comes in various forms depending on ingredients and preparation technique used.  With the name taken from the heavy glazed clay pot it is prepared in, the Tagine is a slow cooked stew of tender meats and aromatic vegetables. The dome shaped pot is specifically designed to preserve the flavors and the moistures of the medley of ingredients, which can range from olives, prunes, preserved lemon, nuts. Couscous is also a staple dish of any Moroccan diet, and restaurant standards prepare the dish enriched with an array of additional ingredient. Learning to cook both dishes will introduce you to the amazing palate of spices that characterize Northern Moroccan style cooking- saffron, cumin, paprika, coriander,  as well as gaining the secret knack of how and when to use each one, that will lead to the creation of a perfect dish.

Many Riads offer cooking classes, but for the best experience take the initiative to book with La Maison Arabe. This legendary Marrakesh restaurant now offers the most superior active culinary experience. The workshop is conducted by a Dada, a traditional Moroccan chef, who is accompanied by a translator, ready to explain with great detail and patience the practicalities of Moroccan cuisine, as well as providing n overview of the history of the dishes, and the cultural significance of their ingredients. The course will usually include the preparation of two traditional Moroccan dishes; an appetizer and a main, and you will learn to prepare you meal from a personal worktop equipped with all the necessary spices and fresh ingredients. After a few hours of slaving over a hot stove,  which will more than whet your appetite, you will be able to relish in the satisfaction of being able to tuck into the fruits of your labor; a true Moroccan style feast. The course is held in stunning surroundings; the restaurant’s country club Kasbah, surrounded by lush foliage, with personal waiting staff attending to your every need, as you dine out on the sundrenched patio. And after taking time to digest your culinary creation, be sure to take advantage of the club’s swimming pool for an after-dinner dip.

Today, Riads are synonymous with luxury pampering; a riad is defiant in the face of generic hotel culture and acts as a testament to the limitless possibility of  imagination when it comes to hospitality. Tucked away around many a Marrakesh corner, and wall a plethora of beautiful and elaborate Riads subside, offering accommodation of the highest quality. Many propose spa treatments, steam rooms, pools and restaurant, yet each differs in their mood, setting and design.

Ultra stylish Riad Enija is a top choice for many a Marrakesh bound celeb. A converted 200 year old silk traders’ palace, the Riad is composed of 3 houses filled with antique and elegant objects. Breakfast is provided, as well as evening dining, which is served on round mosaic tables, each one hidden between luscious tropical plants and stone columns, set out in a fabulously exotic courtyard. Rooms are meticulously decorated, with rich textiles, flowing tapestries and four poster beds. Morning awaits you with fresh fruit, and then a 2 course breakfast of pastries, fresh orange juice, homemade breads and jams.

Yet, if you are attracted to the idea of a Riad for its promise of tradition and heritage, Dar Sbihi is definitely a timeless choice. The owners have used classical Moroccan technique and local craftsmanship to create a design which perfectly balances simplicity and meticulous attention to detail. Enjoy each curve of the hard-carved archways, the poignancy of the tiled walkways around the perfectly cultivated gardens. Rooms are effortless spectacular, each unique yet sharing the overall theme of blue mosaic tiled walls and wooden fixtures.  

La sultana is the place for the best spa treatment; the spa is a beautifully lit room offering a ‘Hammam’ (Moroccan bath) for washing away the city’s impurities, a Jacuzzi, sauna beauty centre and a hydrotherapy bath. Treatments can be taken out in the open air, on the pavilion of the roof, for you to afterwards relax on sun loungers and admire the stunning rooftop views of the outstretching Kasbah.

Marrakesh has seven patron saints that have been buried around the city, and for each one, richly embellished shrines (known as Zaouia) have been erected in their honor, which can be traced back to the 16^th Century. This makes Marrakesh a place of central religious importance, attracting pilgrims from across the world to come to worship. Although non-Muslim visitors are denied admittance, the tomb facades are impressive architectural constructions that are definitely worth a visit.  

But for those of you itching for a peak around a mosque, in the heart of the ‘Medina’ old city is the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, which is now open to the public. Built in the 12^th Century, it is the largest and oldest mosque in Marrakesh, which is an impressive exhibit of Moroccan architecture with an Andalucían twist. After entering the mosque through a low archway, a narrow and dark passageway will lead you out into the splendor of the main courtyard, presenting you with colorful mosaic, focal fountains, and enclosed by a carved wooden screening, crafted by elaborate and intrinsic handwork.  Entering the mosque on either side allows you to explore the maze of little prayer rooms, which were once resided in by monks, each with stunning stucco ceilings. The mosque is complete with a comprehensive museum, and an endearing outside cafe to finish off your visit with a mint tea.