Three countries later, and I have only just found time to add images of my Moroccan visit to the souks of Marrakech.  The photos in this blog were taken the day I left for Nairobi, but I didn’t have time to edit them. Now, 2 countries later and situated in Cape Town I now have 4 days free of work so I can finish the process.

I had injured my foot and the pain was terrible as I walked over the cobblestones,  it was also freezing cold but I was determined not to miss the experience. My tour had left and I was in a Riad in the Medina.

I enjoyed it, but it certainly wasn’t comfortable for me. I had no desk to work on, lots of stairs and no heating to speak of.

Le Orangerie Riad

So left to my own devices I found my way around (sort of) First to the Secret Garden. There is an entrance that you could easily miss, but fortunately I found it.

I sat in the Gazebo in the centre of the garden and chatted to another Aussie for about an hour, it was a relaxing experience.

The riad-museum Le Jardin Secret

is one of the largest and most ancient palaces of the medina of Marrakech. It is a place that has kept ancient structures intact that are of an extraordinary cultural value, linked to the art of gardens, architecture and Arab hydraulics. Popularly known as Riad Loukrissi, it has been the sumptuous residence of the Qaid U-Bihi who was the head of the Haha tribe. The riad rises up in the Mouassine quarter (on the main thoroughfare and but a few steps away from the Mouassine fountain and Mouassine Mosque), and comprises two large gardens and one of the highest towers of the medina. The museum provides you with a wealth of historical information about Marrakech’s architecture, water, and gardens.

Out of the gate and down another Souk. Once in the shadows it was freezing again, (about 4 deg) people were out on their working day, sweeping, cleaning and then there was the ever present motor bikes.

I came upon the Women’s Museum.

“Rural Women, Artist Women”

The Berber Carpet is the mirror of the woman. The Women’s Museum highlights the extent of this rich heritage by paying a vivid tribute to the rural women who, by creating the works, will ensure the continuity of the tradition of ancestral weaving and thereby contribute to the enrichment of the nations cultural heritage.

I loved the shoes.

And the Jewellery displayed.

Out into the Medina again, and I found stores that reflected a pure Moroccan/European influence.

Colours and textures to make your heart leap.

To be continued.