RIAD MARRAKECH CHARMING TRANQUIL HISTORIC
INTRODUCTION
A riad is a traditional Moroccan dwelling, particularly known for its interior garden and courtyard. Riads are very common in Morocco, they were once the homes of rich merchants and traders. Today, riads throughout the kingdom of Morocco have been converted into luxury guest houses for the enjoyment of local and foreign travelers.
These traditional buildings called “Riads” have played a major role in making Morocco one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Experiencing the true Moroccan way of life by staying in a Riad rather than a regular hotel is a fascinating tourist experience for visitors from all over the world.
WHAT IS A RIAD IN MOROCCO ?
WHAT IS A RIAD?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan dwelling or palace with an interior garden and courtyard. They are located within the walls of the ancient city, the “Medina”.
In general, the Riad is completely enclosed internally, insulated with high resistance neutral walls and with minimal ventilation to prevent heat and noise from the street.
Riads are also known for their open ceiling structure. Usually, the inner courtyard of these charming buildings is decorated with colorful traditional mosaics called “Zellij” and highlighted by ceramic fountains in the center, with plants, trees and flowers all around.
Hotel rooms are often located on the second floor, while common areas and dining areas are located on the ground floor.
Another particularity of the Riads is the presence of large roof terraces offering panoramic views of the Medina.
THE ORIGINS OF THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE RIAD
The word “Riad” which means “garden”
The origin of the structure of the Riad comes from ancient civilizations, and is a perfect blend of different architectures. Although houses built around central courtyards always existed in the ancient Greco-Roman world, today they stand out particularly in Moroccan-Andalusian architecture. The courtyard is also an ancient feature of Middle Eastern residential architecture, and landscaped gardens of Islamic architecture date back to Iranian civilization.
In Morocco, the ancient Roman city of Volubilis refers to the beginnings of riad architecture under the Idrisid dynasty.
When they invaded Spain in the 11th century, the Idrisids sent Muslim and Jewish artisans from Spain to Morocco to demonstrate their knowledge of arts and crafts.
THE EMPHASIS IS PLACED ON RIADS IN THE ARCHITECTURE OF MOROCCAN HOUSES:
Even though the style of these Riads has evolved over the years towards a more modern and simpler style, the same overall structure is still present in the current design.
In terms of architecture, the facade and walls of the Riad are distinguished by their private character. Unlike ordinary homes whose openings face the outside, the windows of riads are always oriented towards the interior courtyard and the garden, not only to ensure the privacy of the family, in accordance with the Islamic concept of privacy, but also to protect it from climate change. This inward orientation and the absence of large exterior windows further highlight the central garden and the interior courtyard. The central garden is distinguished in most cases by four different squares of plants and trees, often orange or lemon trees, surrounding the central fountain.
The walls, typically made of bricks, are generally covered with an authentic lime coating , a smooth and waterproof coating used in Moroccan houses, and Zellij tiles. The walls can also be delicately decorated with cut wood for a more refined style. On walls covered in plaster or wood, Moroccan artisans often use geometric shapes or quotes from the Quran in Islamic calligraphy.
Recently, interest among foreign travelers in this type of residence has increased , sparking a wave of renovations in cities such as Marrakech and Fez
Many of these often broken-down buildings have been restored and transformed into hotels or restaurants. Foreign interest has brought new challenges for local communities, but these investments have contributed to the restoration of thousands of riads across Morocco, leading to some medinas being recognized as UNESCO-protected heritage .
RIAD LA SULTANA
Create an attractive, confidential and cozy world inhabited by the generous breath of hospitality. La Sultana hotels cultivate iconic places and unusual experiences. Created in the heart of Marrakech and on the Oualidia lagoon, on exceptional and classified sites, they stylishly alternate between cozy spaces and a philosophy of outdoor living.
La Sultana Marrakech and La Sultana Oualidia perpetuate the legend of a Morocco open to beauty and culture. With an innate sense of service. They maintain a privileged relationship with the world where the notion of contemporary hospitality is attached to artisanal know-how, respect for traditions and the environment.
Invitation to an intimate and colorful journey. From Marrakech to Oualidia, each guest writes their own story, savors the tables of La Sultana, takes over the place with delight, as one would in a family home.
In a geography of taste which integrates above all a dimension of pleasure and excellence, We are La Sultana: creators of unique hotels which invite you to live an informal experience of luxury and instinctively cultivate “tailor-made”. At La Sultana, loyalty and the art of welcoming have a soul. In a succession of details, attention and delicacy, our customers enjoy the pleasure of a rare and refined personalized service.
THE PALAIS SEBBAN RIAD
A true jewel of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture, the Palais Sebban welcomes you all year round, in one of the most beautiful riads in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech.
Just 15 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport and a 5-minute walk from the famous Jemaa El Fna square, you will enjoy the comfort of our luxurious rooms in an authentic setting.
Architectural jewel of Marrakech, the Sebban Palace bears the name of the former owner of the place: the Caïd Sebban. It was maintained for centuries by his family. After 4 years of work and rehabilitation, the guest rooms opened their doors and have become a majestic cocoon of tranquility and happiness since 2006.
The different spaces of the hotel are a historical and cultural journey between comfort and modernity. Oriental culture is present in all buildings.
RIAD LES YEUX BLEUS
Recently renovated by a team of talented Marrakech artisans under the direction of interior designer Willem Smit, the new Riad Les Yeux Bleus boutique hotel opens its doors for those keen to experience Moroccan hospitality at its best without giving up a certain flavor of modernity.
Riad Les Yeux Bleus’ balanced blend of contemporary and traditional styles (with a pop art touch in the choice of colours) reflects upon the current nature of Marrakech, where vibrant urban life and a varied choice of trendy bars, art galleries, and restaurants coexist in friendly symbiosis with the ancient ways of the city.
Located in the Bab Doukkala district, one of the most popular and picturesque quarters of the medina, and just ten minutes on foot from the square of Jemaa el Fna in the heart of Marrakech, Riad Les Yeux Bleus features 11 comfortable bedrooms—each one decorated in its own style—distributed around two charming patios; two pools, a library, a full spa including massage and hammam, and a magnificent roof terrace with a bar. The perfect place for you to relax after a hard day of exploring the wonders of Marrakech!
CONCLUSION
In the end, riads are an unforgettable and unique trip for tourists looking to get lost into Moroccan cultural traditions. The traditional guesthouses, distinguished by their gorgeous design, peaceful courtyards as well as personalized service, offer additional a captivating hub of luxury and authentic. The riad experience does not just allow guests to take in the fascinating history and vibrant culture of the cities in Morocco, but can also help the local community and artisans. In the context of the Moroccan vacation they embody the warmth and hospitality that is characteristic of Morocco, which makes the ideal option when you want to make unforgettable memories on their trip. They can be found in the middle of bustling medinas, or situated in the midst of picturesque hills, every riad has a unique story to tell that invites visitors to experience the beauty and charm of Morocco in an unforgettable manner.
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