Morocco - 2023 Marrakesh - Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace was built in the last half of the 19th century. It was used as the residence of the King of Morocco, and later, as the residence of the French resident-general, under the French Protectorate. It was the residence of King Mohammed V, after the declaration of independence in 1956. His son and sucessor, King Hassan II, later transferred the Palace to the Ministry of Culture and turned it into a museum. The Bahia Palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.
The Palace layout is somewhat of a labyrinth, as it was expanded over the years without a specific plan. One enters the Palace via a small courtyard with access to four separate areas.
Decorations throughout the Palace are breathtaking. Doorways, ceilings, archways, all around we find exquisitely designed forms. Entire walls and archways are covered in intricate patterns drawn from Moroccan traditions, as well as Arabic inscriptions. From mesmerizing geometric patterns on tiles, to delicate floral shapes carved in plaster and wood, there is much to marvel at as we walk through its many rooms and courtyards.
