Bahia Palace

The Palais de la Bahia (Palace of the Beautiful) is a masterpiece of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture and perhaps the most beautiful building in Marrakech. Built at the end of the 19th century for the Grand Vizier Ba Ahmed ben Moussa, it spans 8,000 m² with 150 rooms, blooming courtyards, fountains, and geometrically designed gardens.

What to Expect

The palace is a single ornament: ceilings of painted cedarwood, walls with zellij mosaics (geometric tile patterns), stucco arabesques of breathtaking delicacy, floors of Carrara marble. The great courtyard with its orange trees and marble fountain is the highlight — here the full sophistication of Moroccan craftsmanship is displayed. The former chambers of the favorite concubine Bahia, after whom the palace is named, are particularly lavishly decorated.

Interesting is what is missing: When Ba Ahmed died in 1900, the palace was looted within hours — by his own master, Sultan Abdelaziz. Furniture, carpets, chandeliers — all gone. What remains are the walls, ceilings, and floors, which fortunately were not portable.

Practical Tips

The palace is one of the most visited attractions in Marrakech. Come early (before 10:00 am) or late (after 4:00 pm) to avoid the tour groups. The official guides at the entrance (about 100 MAD for 45 min.) are knowledgeable and worthwhile — the architecture is much better understood with explanation. Plan for 1–1.5 hours.