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Top 10 Landmarks to Visit in Morocco
Top 10 Landmarks to Visit in Morocco for unforgettable memories
Are you in Morocco and want to explore the best landmarks in the country? Check out this post to get the ultimate list of the top ten landmarks. Read here!
Top 10 Landmarks to Visit in Morocco
Millions of people plan to have a memorable trip to North Africa. Although you can visit Algeria and Egypt, we recommend visiting Morocco if you want to experience diversity and captivating landscapes because it has stunning sights to offer.The country is home to lush green landscapes, high peaks, beautiful valleys, deserts, and scenic beaches.
Likewise, it has hundreds of landmarks you can explore with your friends and family. Moreover, it has some amazing historical, cultural, and architectural landmarks that should not be missed. Although there are countless attractions in Morocco, we have narrowed down the top 10 landmarks you should visit.
1. Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou is located near the Ouarzazate, a historical and UNESCO World Heritage site with scenic views of the desert. It was once a fort in the 10th century, but now it’s best known as an iconic movie filming location. Many Hollywood and other film industries have been to Ait Benhaddou to shoot a large number of films.
You will love walking through the citadel, a maze-like structure that showcases the history of ancient people who lived in the area. Explore the multilevel dwellings livestock, and meet with merchants. Although it’s a popular location, it’s still peaceful and remote. You can explore the ruins, including old walls, towers, and ancient gates. The homes are built from mud but still, stand strong amidst the sandy desert. So, it is a kind of educational trip to the Ait Benhaddou.
2. Koutoubia Mosque
Koutoubia Mosque is the most famous landmark in Morocco. It is the symbol of Marrakech that attracts hundreds of people every week. However, Non-Muslims can’t enter the building because it is a holy place for Islamic believers, but they can see the tall minaret outside. The Koutoubia minaret can be seen from far away. The architecture of the mosque is breathtaking, and the minaret is made from red sandstone.
The mosque has been around for centuries, but it was built in 1195 by Alm, a caliph of the Almohads. It was built with a combination of traditional Islamic and Berber buildings; this is why its design is unique. The minaret’s height is 70 meters, and it’s surrounded by a beautiful garden.
The good news is that Non-Muslims can satisfy their eyes by roaming in the beautiful garden in the surrounding area of the mosque. We recommend seeing the ornate architecture and decorative details.
Moreover, you can explore the patios and beautiful gardens of Koutoubia at night when it’s lit up with a thousand lights. If you are Muslim, then just visit it.
3. Erg Chebbi
Erg Chebbi is located near Merzouga, a picturesque area filled with over 50 kilometers of dunes. The diverse and massive dunes offer mesmerizing and enigmatic experiences to tourists in the Sahara desert, making it the most visited destination in Morocco.
In addition, people come here to relish the unique orange-colored sand and participate in desert outdoor activities, such as camel trekking through the massive dunes. At the same time, you can visit the local Berber villages to know their culture and enjoy delectable food.
4. Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a symbol of unique architecture in Marrakech. Although the Bahia Palace does not have a long history, many people visit this room to see the large complex, uniquely designed rooms, courtyards, and gardens. It has a beautiful blend of Islamic, Moroccan, and Andalusian architecture.
The palace was built in the 19th century by Sultan Ahmed. He intended this palace to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, and today it is a World Heritage SiteThe palace courtyard, with its fountains and sculptures, is particularly worth seeing. It also contains many rooms that contain ornate furniture and colorful mosaics. The king used to receive his guests in the throne room, which had gold and blue walls and beautiful mosaics.
You can also take a tour of the gardens, which are designed with different plants and trees that are native to Morocco. The garden also contains fountains, pools, and. sculptures. The palace also has many secret rooms and tunnels that you can explore. This is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Bahia Palace has incredible decorative details and artwork on the ceilings, floors, walls, and doors. Overall, Bahia Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in Morocco, and it is definitely worth visiting. The palace is a beautiful tourist destination for families, friends, and couples. It is open throughout the year.
5. Volubilis
Volubilis is another landmark in Morocco you must visit. It is an ancient Roman site near Meknes and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage. Volubilis is Mauritania’s old capital and boasts the ruins of foundations, columns, and mosaics. Moreover, it is here where the world’s best mosaics are found. The site offers a secret corridor, palaces, religious buildings, public baths, and a triumphal arch.
A visit to Volubilis is both educational and exciting. It enables you to learn about the past and present of the country. You can explore the ruins, admire the craftsmanship of ancient builders, and learn about history from the guide accompanying you. Additionally, you can take a camel ride to head further into the desert and experience diverse landscapes.
Volubilis is an amazing place to explore an ancient city, marvel at the ruins, and learn about Moroccan culture. With its strategic location and important history, Volubilis is a must-see destination in Morocco. You can also explore the nearby villages and markets to get a feel of their local culture.
Take a guided tour to learn about the structure’s history and learn the decorative details of stone blocks, steps, and tall archways. That way, you can imagine how Romans lived in the magnificent landmark back in the day.
6. Bab el-Mansour
Bab el-Mansour is one of the most picturesque places in Morocco, driving hundreds of locals and tourists to see the monumental gate. It stands tall in Meknes, an old imperial city and a great spot to explore Morocco’s rich culture.
The gate is famous for its red walls, intricate carvings, and impressive archway. It is an iconic structure of Meknes, a part of the old city. Its grand architecture represents Moroccan culture, with its two blue and white towers topped by green onion domes. It is embellished with geometric patterns and floral. Motifs and zellige tiles. It is also decorated with colorful ceramic plates and a large marble slab above the entrance.
There are also plenty of souvenir shops around Bab el-Mansour where you can shop for souvenirs and traditional Moroccan items. You can also take a horse carriage ride to explore the nearby city or take a stroll along the ramparts for an excellent view of the gate.
Bab el-Mansour is a great place to experience Morocco’s rich culture and heritage. Its magnificent architecture will leave you mesmerized, while its captivating beauty is sure to stay in your memory forever. You and your family will love the striking tiles, artwork, and decorative calligraphy of Bab el-Mansour in Meknes.
The structure was built in the 1730s. It was used as the primary gateway between the Royal Capital and the old medina. Take a guided tour to learn about Bab el-Mansour. Don’t forget to take photos or capture videos to create memories.
7. Medina of Chefchaouen
Medina of Chefchaouen is one of the most charming destinations in Morocco, making it a unique landmark in North Africa. The town is located in the Rif Mountains and is known for its striking blue-washed buildings. It was founded by Spanish exiles in 1471 and still retains its original city plan.
The blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen make it a spectacular place to visit. You’ll find cobbled streets, wooden doors, and vibrant colors in the medina. The casbah of Chefchaouen is a fortress with walls, towers, and three main gates. It is a great place to explore the old city and get a glimpse of Moroccan culture.
The place is famous for mesmerizing architectural buildings with beautiful cobalt tones.
Although Medina of Chefchaouen is not a Disneyland, it attracts hundreds of people to learn about its history and shop for their favorite items, including souvenirs. Visit the Grand Mosque to see the beautiful octagonal structure of the minaret. Likewise, we recommend exploring the old Kasbah.
8. Chaouwara Tanneries
Chaouwara Tanneries in Fez boasts an energetic, colorful, and vibrant atmosphere, giving visitors a glimpse of leatherwork, ancient crafts, and artwork.
Located in the center of Fez, visitors can explore a maze of leather tanning pits filled with dying animal skins and craftsmanship tools used in the production of leather goods. There are shops and vendors on the sides of the pits selling leather items like slippers, bags, cushions, and wallets. Be sure to take a guided tour of the area to learn more about the craft and get an up-close view of the tanning process.
The Chaouwara Tanneries is a great place to explore the traditional craftsmanship of Morocco and take home some unique souvenirs. You can also get a bird’s eye view of the tanneries by climbing up to the rooftops and balconies around the area. You can see how ancient people treated and dyed large pits using methods practiced for centuries.
9.Jbel Toubkal
Jbel Toubkal is the tallest mountain in the country, standing 13,671 feet high. It is the most mesmerizing peak in the High Atlas Mountains, attracting hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure lovers. The mountain also offers picturesque views in the middle of a beautiful national park filled with fascinating wildlife.
The trek to Jbel Toubkal is an adventure, crossing lush valleys and rolling hills with barren desert plains in the distance. If you’re feeling adventurous, the hike is definitely worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and breathtaking sunsets from its summit. You can also explore the traditional Berber villages and taste their authentic dishes on your way to Jbel Toubkal.
10. Djemaa el-Fna
Djemaa el-Fna is a square in Marrakech known for its traditional ambiance and spectacular sunset views. The place is filled with musicians, fortune tellers, dancers, and henna artists. You will meet people wearing traditional clothes. You can spend hours exploring the old buildings, market stalls, and restaurants, getting to know the locals and their culture Djemaa el-Fna hosts various events throughout the year, such as performances by acrobats and musicians. Don’t miss out on the snake charmers, who are a must-see attraction.
You can also find food vendors selling traditional Moroccan dishes such as couscous and kebabs. The smell of cooking wafts and the wide range of stalls in the market create a one-of-a-kind experience. Djemaa el-Fna is an excellent place to buy traditional souvenirs and handicrafts, making it a popular landmark in Marrakech.
Final Words
Morocco drives hundreds of thousands of tourists from different countries, allowing them to relish the scenic beauty, natural attractions, and beautiful landmarks of this North African country. Visiting these ten landmarks in Morocco creates memorable experiences. Until Next Time!
FAQs
What is the most visited place in Morocco?
Marrakesh Medina. The bustling and vibrant buzz of Marrakesh medina sums up Morocco for many visitors and is a major tourist attraction.
What should I not miss in Morocco?
Sahara Desert, Local Cuisine, Marrakesh, Atlas Mountains, Fez, and many more places one should not miss.
What is the tallest mountain in Morocco?
Jbel Toubkal is the tallest mountain in Morocco, standing 13,671 feet high. It is the most mesmerizing peak in the High Atlas Mountains, attracting hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure lovers.
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.
