The medina is the oldest part of a city in Arab countries. In Marrakech it is near the famous Ali Ben Youssef Mosque and is the busiest place in the city. The medina has a very strong defence - 10-metre high fortress walls with 202 watchtowers and a huge number of gates. Therefore, it is almost safe to walk around here. There are many other interesting historical sights in the Medina, including the majestic Qutubiya Mosque.
The ancient part of the city is famous for its central square Jema el-Fna, from which numerous streets lead in different directions. Jema el Fna can be called the heart of the city. It is like a big labyrinth where life stops only late at night. Without this square, the magnificent Marrakech would be just an ordinary town.
Located near the Koutoubia Mosque, Jem el Fna Square was built in the 11th century. The spacious square has been the hallmark of this kingdom for centuries. But there was a time when this place was not in the best fame. From Arabic the name of Djem el-Fna is translated as "the square of the dead", which is not strange at all. It was here that the execution of robbers took place until the XIX century. But even at that time, Djema el-Fna played a very important cultural and social role in the life of the city.
Today the central square of Marrakech is a point of attraction for all tourists visiting this magnificent city. Here everyone can find entertainment for themselves. In the square you can see storytellers, street performances by musicians, acrobats, henna painting creators, monkey trainers and even snake charmers. Jema el Fna also has a huge number of shops where you can buy interesting souvenirs and many restaurants. This is where all sightseeing tours of Marrakech start.
