marrakecho

Marrakech - a fairy tale in gold and ochre, in a spectacular semi-desert setting with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, oriental life-styles and Western tourists, the ancient medina and the cosmopolitan boulevards, the hustle of DJeema El-Fna square, the grandiose Koutoubia mosque, and the fabulous Royal, Palmeraie and Amelkis golf courses. I discovered Marrakech on an all too brief visit in April of 2006. I promised to return, to Marrakech, and to discover Morocco.

Marrakech was founded in 1062 by the Almoravid sultan Youssef bin Tachfin, and during his time, he sought to extend the city using much of the wealth taken during the Almoravid conquest of Spain. His death in 1106 left a void which was to be filled by his son and heir, Ali. During his time as sultan, Marrakech flourished. Ali commissioned the construction of the Khettera (underground irrigation canals) as well as palaces and baths. Also during his reign, artisans from Muslim Spain were busy erecting the first of the elegant, Andalusian-style buildings that were to grace the city. After numerous wars which left much of Marrakech razed to the ground, Ahmed al-Mansour (known as 'the golden one' on account of his vast wealth) came to power and became one of the more outstanding Saadian sultans.

I took most of my photographs on Marrakech's famous DJemaa El-Fna square (it originates in the 12th century, and is perhaps the largest Arab square anywhere). I tried to capture the unique atmosphere of this place, as the sun sets, and thousands gather to enjoy the spectacles of musicians, acrobats, dancers, fortune tellers, snake charmers, water carriers, and taste the myriad of delicious foods and fruit drinks prepared before your eyes.