EXPLORING JEMAA EL FNA SQUARE
During your seminar or convention organized by MARRAKECH EVENTS, you will have the opportunity to discover the famous Jemaa El Fna Square, an iconic place in Marrakech and the vibrant heart of the Red City.
Jemaa el-Fna Square is located in the heart of Marrakech, Morocco. It is a large square and market within the medina (old town) of Marrakech. This square is an iconic location in the city, bustling and vibrant, where the colors, sounds, and scents of the Orient come together.
Jemaa el-Fna Square has been recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since 2008. This recognition reflects the cultural significance and richness of oral expression, musical traditions, and performing arts that take place on the square. Jemaa el-Fna is an iconic place where tales and legends, music, theater, and other forms of cultural expression converge, making it a true cultural treasure.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and souks (markets) where you can find a wide variety of artisanal products, spices, carpets, traditional clothing, and much more.
Jemaa el-Fna Square is famous for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evening when street performers set up to entertain visitors. You can find musicians, dancers, snake charmers, acrobats, and storytellers. There are also many food stalls where you can taste traditional Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tagines, and skewers.
The Storytellers of Jemaa El-Fna Square
The storytellers of Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech are an iconic attraction of the city. These “hlaykate” (storytellers) are traditional artists who gather every evening to tell stories and entertain the public. They use their expressive voices and narrative talents to captivate listeners with Moroccan folk tales, local legends, and mystical narratives.
The storytellers are often accompanied by musicians who add a vibrant ambiance to their tales. The stories told can vary, ranging from historical and religious narratives to fantastic and moral tales.
It’s a unique experience to listen to these ancestral stories in such a lively and bustling environment as Jemaa el-Fna Square. Spectators can sit down and be carried away by the story or mingle with the crowd and listen to several different storytellers.
The Orange Juice of the Square
During your visit to Jemaa el-Fna Square, you cannot miss the opportunity to taste a delicious glass of fresh orange juice. The orange juice stalls are a must-visit attraction on the square. You’ll find numerous stands selling freshly squeezed oranges right in front of you. Moroccan oranges are renowned for their sweet and juicy taste, making this orange juice particularly delightful. It’s a perfect refreshment to hydrate and cool you down during your exploration of Jemaa el-Fna Square. So, be sure to stop at one of these orange juice stands to enjoy this tasty Moroccan experience.
The Main Artisans of the Square
Jemaa el-Fna Square is renowned as a gathering point for numerous artisans and merchants. MARRAKECH EVENTSwill allow you to discover these artisans in a fun way by organizing a rally in the souks. You will meet artisans practicing age-old crafts and interact with each of them during this team-building activity. Some may even introduce you to their craft!
Here are some of the common artisans you can find on the square:
- Weavers: Moroccan weavers are known for their skill in crafting Berber rugs and highly decorative traditional fabrics.
- Leatherworkers: Leatherworkers create and sell high-quality leather products, such as bags, shoes, belts, and traditional leather goods.
- Potters: Potters create pottery and ceramics, ranging from kitchenware to lamps and decorations.
- Jewelers: Moroccan jewelers are renowned for their craftsmanship in crafting traditional silver and gold jewelry, often adorned with gemstones or intricate patterns.
- Blacksmiths: Blacksmiths work with iron and create decorative items such as lanterns, door handles, and hardware.
- Cobblers: Moroccan cobblers are known for their craftsmanship in making traditional leather shoes, often with unique patterns and adornments.
These artisans, among many others, contribute to the cultural richness and authenticity of Jemaa el-Fna Square by offering unique and high-quality handmade products.
WHERE TO HAVE LUNCH AROUND JEMAA EL-FNA SQUARE?
Around Jemaa el-Fna Square, you’ll find numerous restaurants and cafes offering delicious Moroccan cuisine. Here are some options for lunch:
1. Café des Épices: Located near the square, this café-restaurant offers a beautiful view of the medina from its terrace. You can enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes such as tajine and couscous, as well as fresh salads and fruit juices.
2. Terrasse des Épices: Another popular café-restaurant with a terrace offering stunning views of Jemaa el-Fna Square. It offers a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, fresh salads, and soups.
3. Le Foundouk: This restaurant nearby offers refined Moroccan cuisine in an elegant setting. You can savor local dishes such as pastilla (pie), tajine, and couscous.
4. Le Jardin: Located in the medina district, this restaurant is famous for its beautiful lush garden. They serve Moroccan and international cuisine, with a variety of vegetarian dishes.
5. Restaurant Limoni: If you’re looking for Italian flavors, this restaurant near Jemaa el-Fna Square offers delicious Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizzas, and seafood dishes.
These suggestions are just a small selection among many other establishments where you can enjoy delicious food near Jemaa el-Fna Square.
EVENING ON THE SQUARE
Starting around 5 PM, Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech comes even more alive with a multitude of activities and performances. Here are some of the activities and performances you can find:
1. Musicians: Groups of musicians gather to play traditional Moroccan music such as Gnawa, Raï, or even percussion ensembles. The lively rhythms and enchanting melodies add a festive atmosphere to the square.
2. Dancers: You’ll find dancers dressed in traditional costumes performing Moroccan folk dances. They often draw crowds with their graceful and energetic performances.
3. Storytellers: Traditional storytellers (hlaykate) come together to captivate the audience by narrating Moroccan folk stories and tales, all in a unique narrative style.
4. Puppet Shows: Puppeteers present captivating shows with traditional Moroccan puppets, bringing stories and interactive performances to life.
5. Snake Charmers: Snake charmers grab attention by skillfully handling snakes, demonstrating their mastery and relationship with these reptiles. Snake charmers at Jemaa el-Fna Square are among the most famous and iconic attractions. These nomadic artists use their talent and knowledge of snakes to captivate the audience with snake-charming performances.
Snake charmers typically showcase non-venomous, harmless snakes such as cobras or sand snakes. They skillfully manipulate the snakes, making them move and dance using specific movements and musical instruments like bamboo flutes.
These spectacles, while impressive, are part of a broader cultural tradition. Beyond the spectacle, they hold symbolic and spiritual meanings in Moroccan culture, related to mastering the forces of nature and the belief in protection against evil.
6. Food Vendors: Many stalls and street vendors offer a variety of Moroccan dishes and specialties, such as tajines, grilled meats, kebabs, fresh fruit juices, pastries, and many other delicious treats.
These performances offer a true immersion into Moroccan culture and create a unique atmosphere on Jemaa el-Fna Square in the evening.
SIGHTS TO SEE FROM JEMAA EL-FNA SQUARE
Here’s an example itinerary to explore Jemaa el-Fna Square and its surroundings:
1. Start at Jemaa el-Fna Square: Begin your visit by immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the square. Enjoy performances by musicians and dancers, watch snake charmers, and stroll among the colorful stalls.
2. Medina Souks: From the square, head to the medina’s souks. Explore the narrow, bustling alleyways where you’ll find artisanal products, spices, fabrics, jewelry, and much more. Don’t hesitate to haggle with local merchants!
3. Koutoubia Mosque: Located near the square, visit the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque. This 12th-century mosque is an iconic symbol of Marrakech, and you can admire its architecture and impressive minaret.
4. Majorelle Gardens: Take a break at the Majorelle Gardens, not far from the medina. You can relax in this green oasis and admire exotic plants, fountains, and art deco-style buildings.
5. Marrakech Museum: If you’re interested in Marrakech’s history and culture, visit the Marrakech Museum. Located in a 19th-century palace, the museum features collections of traditional and contemporary Moroccan art.
6. Relax in a Hammam: End your eventful day by treating yourself to a relaxing experience in a traditional hammam. Enjoy a bath and a soothing massage to recharge after a day of exploration.
This itinerary allows you to experience the vibrant life of Jemaa el-Fna Square while exploring Marrakech’s cultural and historical treasures. Remember to tailor the itinerary based on your preferences and take the time to savor each step of your visit.
SOME BEAUTIFUL RIADS NEAR JEMAA EL-FNA SQUARE
If you’re looking for luxurious accommodations near Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many luxury riads in the area. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden or central courtyard.
Here are some suggestions for luxury riads, selected by MARRAKECH EVENTS, located near Jemaa el-Fna Square:
1 La Maison Arabe: This luxury establishment offers luxurious rooms and impeccable service. The riad also features a spa, a pool, and several gourmet restaurants.
2 Riad Kheirredine: This luxury riad offers stylish rooms and a peaceful setting. You can enjoy the pool, hammam, and jacuzzi for relaxation after a busy day.
3 Riad Farnatchi: Located just steps from the square, this luxury riad offers spacious suites and a terrace with panoramic views of Marrakech. The attentive staff provides personalized service and quality amenities.
4 Riad Joya: This elegant and refined boutique riad is tastefully decorated and offers luxurious rooms. Enjoy the rooftop terrace and spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 Riad Palais Sebban: Nestled in the medina’s alleys, this luxury riad features traditional Moroccan architecture and a picturesque inner courtyard. Enjoy the pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
These luxury riads offer a sumptuous setting for your stay in Marrakech, allowing you to enjoy the proximity of Jemaa el-Fna Square while benefiting from high-quality accommodations. Be sure to check availability and book in advance for the best possible experience.