The Agafay Studio

Marrakesh is one of the major cities in the glorious North African country of Morocco. It is the fourth largest city in the country after Casablanca, Fes and Rabat. 

With a thousand years of history behind it behind it, Marrakesh is bursting with rich cultures. In its past it has been occupied by The Almohads, Saadians and Alaouites who have all left their undeniable mark on the city. Set against a backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains, this cultural capital bakes in the hot sun of northern Africa, and is home to countless artists, galleries, festivals, markets, exhibitions, and of course thousands of buildings displaying Morocco's stunning traditional architecture. 

The beating heart of Marrakesh is the Koutobia - the great square of Jemaa el Fna  - which is located in the old city - 'Medina' - walls where Kssour Agafay Studio is based. The square dates back top 1150 when the Almohads began to build it, a process which would take 40 yesrs to complete. A UNESCO Oral and Immaterial site, Jemaa el Fna is world famous for its melting point of cultural activity. Hundreds of people come to meet here every day, to eat and drink in the many restaurant stalls serving delicious Moroccan cuisine, and to watch the exciting street performers - dancers, acrobats, fortune tellers and more. It especially comes to life at night when the many terraces of cafes lining the square are filled with revelers. It is truly the place to come to soak up the inspirations of Moroccan culture, and it is right on your doorstep at the studio. 

Flowing off the square are the many bazaars and alleyways which populate the Medina. These are the places where you can explore what the city has to offer by way of arts and crafts. The souks specialise in all sorts: fine leather goods, carpets, pottery and copperware of the highest and most beautiful standard. The Moroccan craft industry of course has one foot firmly in the traditions of the country, but there are also fresh developments in the modern era undetaken by both Moroccan and foreign craftsmen reflecting the latest fashions, nowhere more visible than in the Marrakesh Medina. However, shopping is not entirely restricted to the souks, with elegant brand-name boutiques providing products by the biggest names in Western fashion. 

Sat next to the old town is the new town, which matches its older neighbour with its provision of beautiful parks and gardens. The locals like to travel the city by foot, bicycle and barouche, and you should too in order to absorb the way of life here. Visit the The Majorelle Garden, Àrsat Moulay Àbdessalam Park, the gardens of the Bahia Palace, and the Menara and Agdal
orchards - just a handful of the magestic sights to see in the fairytale world of Marrakesh. 

To view more things to do and see in Marrakesh, please visit the 'What To Do' page.