Marrakech Ramparts, Marrakech

The Marrakech medina walls, or ramparts, are massive: about 19 km in length, 9 meters high by 2 meters thick. Built in the 12th century as fortification to defend the city from the foes living in the High Atlas mountains, they look as if made of stone, whereas in reality they are made of a pinkish mixture of earth, stone and lime on a wooden structure. This might not seem very solid for a defensive structure, but the huge blocks of stone were difficult to come by in those days and, in any case, the walls were frequently repaired. Even today, one can notice the numerous square holes left from scaffolding during restoration works, which doesn't seem to make the experience any less appealing.

During the Almohad dynasty, each of the 19 gates of the Medina had massive doors of cedar studded with iron, which were shut at night. As the city outgrew its walls, they were extended to the north and south in the 16th century. You can walk or cycle along the exterior of the ramparts, but regrettably, you cannot access the top.

The best time to see the walls is at sunset when they seem to glow in the reddish light. The walls and the gates are open at all times and lit at night.

Why You Should Visit:
Some of the best-preserved and most photogenic walls to be found in the whole Arab world.

Tip:
Automobile traffic through the gates can be hectic, so take care when crossing the street or taking pictures.
One of the best ways to view the walls is by riding a horse-drawn carriage, available from Jemaa el-Fnaa square (the tour takes about an hour). Negotiate a sensible price ($15-$25) before you get in the carriage to avoid arguments. Leave a tip and you'll be surprised at the response.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Marrakech. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Marrakech Ramparts
Sight Location: Marrakech, Morocco (See walking tours in Marrakech)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Marrakech, Morocco

Create Your Own Walk in Marrakech

Creating your own self-guided walk in Marrakech is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Gueliz Walking Tour

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We'll start our acquaintance with Gueliz in the El-Harti Gardens (Jnane El Harti), a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles

Moroccan Architecture Walking Tour

No tall skyscrapers, no sophisticated giant malls, no anything else of Western architecture await you on this tour. Our self-guided walk is entirely about the genuine Moroccan style. We are going to reveal Marrakech which will amaze you with its majestic structures, traditional motifs, and mystic atmosphere.

Our first stop is a prominent example of Islamic architecture, the Koutoubia Mosque.... view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.6 Km or 2.9 Miles

Moroccan Palaces Walking Tour

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Among the most renowned... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles

Marrakech Shopping Tour

Shopping in Marrakech is an extraordinary experience that captivates the senses. Perhaps no other shopping in your life will compare to it: vivid, bright, juicy colors of carpets, clothes, and shoes; enchanting smells of local perfumes and spices; crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery; and of course, the long shopping mazes and souks.

One of the most iconic shopping destinations in Marrakech is... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles

Marrakech Top Religious Sites

Islam is the official religion in Morocco, which is why it is only natural that mosques are the dominant religious sites in the country, and Marrakech is no exception. Outside these places of worship, the city's religious scene is represented by unique historical monuments (koubbas), cemeteries, and mausoleums 鈥� all quite interesting to explore.

Our journey starts with the Ben Youssef... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles

Medina Walking Tour

Marrakech Medina is a historic district dating back to the Middle Ages. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, this ancient walled city is a labyrinthine maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, known as souks, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life.

One of the most iconic spots here is Jemaa el-Fnaa, a bustling square that comes alive with street performers,... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles

View all walking tours in Marrakech, Morocco