Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh, also spelled Marrakech, is the fourth-largest city in Morocco and one of the country's four imperial cities. It serves as the capital of the Marrakesh–Safi region and is located west of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.
The city was founded around 1070 by Abu Bakr ibn Umar as the capital of the Almoravid dynasty. The Almoravids established the first major structures in Marrakesh, shaping its layout for centuries to come. The city's iconic red walls, built by Ali ibn Yusuf in 1122–1123, along with various buildings constructed from red sandstone, have earned Marrakesh the nicknames "Red City" and "Ochre City." Over time, it grew rapidly, becoming a significant cultural, religious, and trading center for the Maghreb region. After experiencing a period of decline, Marrakesh regained prominence in the early 16th century as the capital of the Saadian dynasty. Sultans Abdallah al-Ghalib and Ahmad al-Mansur embellished the city with numerous lavish monuments. Beginning in the 17th century, Marrakesh became a hub for Sufi pilgrims, who came to visit the graves of its seven patron saints.
In 1912, the French Protectorate was established in Morocco, and T'hami El Glaoui became the Pasha of Marrakesh, a position he held until Morocco gained independence and the monarchy was reestablished in 1956. Marrakesh features an old fortified city filled with vendors and bustling stalls. This medina quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, numerous souks (markets), the Koutoubia Mosque, and many other historic and cultural landmarks. The city has emerged as a major economic center and tourist destination. Real estate and hotel development in Marrakesh have significantly increased in the 21st century, making it particularly popular among the French, with many French celebrities owning property there.
Marrakesh is served by Ménara International Airport and Marrakesh railway station, which connects the city to Casablanca and northern Morocco. The city is home to several universities and schools, including Cadi Ayyad University. It also has various Moroccan football clubs, such as Najm de Marrakech, KAC Marrakech, Mouloudia de Marrakech, and Chez Ali Club de Marrakech. Furthermore, the Marrakesh Street Circuit hosts events like the World Touring Car Championship, Auto GP, and FIA Formula Two Championship races.
Source: Wikipedia
