Marrakech, a city that already feels like stepping into another world. It conceals a secret behind the thick walls of the El Badi Palace. What lies before you today is a breathtaking ruin — but don’t be misled; the stories hidden within its weather-beaten stones are truly magnificent. Trust me when I say a visit to the Badi Palace of Marrakech is an inspiring experience, allowing you to unfold the whispers of a genuinely grand past. I had just recently been blessed with the opportunity to visit this fascinating site, and I am eager to act as your guide. Let us uncover the mysteries of this spectacular palace set in Marrakech, known also as Palais El Badi.
What You Can Explore at Palais El Badi Ruins
Although it is ruined, a visit to the Palais El Badi promises to be a thrilling journey. One is connected through all the vast open spaces, as well as the remaining architectural buildings that still possess tangible shadows of the past. As you walk through the site, you could still make out the layout of the former palace, which also gives appreciation about its impressive scale.
Here are some of the main things you will encounter while exploring the badi palace:
The Central Grand Courtyard
This is the huge central courtyard which was once paved and scattered with fountains. Here you get a sense of the palace’s vastness, and now imagining the kind of life that would have stirred in place would be quite a challenge.
The Pool and Sunken Garden
In the middle of the grand courtyard remains the shell of a huge rectangular pool circled by sunken gardens. It would be an oasis of serenity in the cella or the palace.
Outside the Koutoubia Minbar Pavilion
One of the more vital surviving elements is a pavilion that encloses the magnificently restored 12th-century minbar (pulpit) from the Koutoubia Mosque. This intricately carved wooden masterpiece bears testimony to the qualified craftsmanship of the Almoravid period and is sure to become one of the high points, if not the highlight, of your visit to the badi palace marrakech.
The Underground Passageways and Dungeons
Here is a different section that can be visited underground chambers and passageways, which were once parts of the palace complex, but which still shows some of the less visible aspects.
The Terraces
An ascension to the terraces could provide a view of the ruins of El Badi Palace with the city of Marrakech, and the towering Koutoubia Mosque in the distance. Great points for pictures as well as immersing yourself in the scale of the palace.
The Stork Nests
They also make good homes atop the remaining walls and pillars, with their nests discernible in the many places. These majestic birds have indeed moved into the palace ruins, adding its own natural flavor and beauty to a heritage site.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Information for El Badi Palace
Ready to plan your trip to the El Badi Palace? Here’s some essential information to help you make the most of your visit:
Entrance Fee: Getting Your Badi Palace Tickets
The entrance fee for the Badi Palace is generally quite affordable. The last time I visited, it was about 70 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). However, as with all attractions, the prices change now and then, and it is best to check the current badi palace entrance fee before your travel dates.
Usually, tickets for badi palace can be bought right at the entrance of the palace. There may be a separate ticketwindow, so just follow the signs. Be prepared for a short queue, especially during peak tourist hours.
The entrance fee usually includes access to all the areas of the palais el badi open to the public: courtyards, terraces, and the pavilion housing Koutoubia Minbar.
Hours of Operation: When to Visit
In general, El Badi Palace follows consistent opening hours throughout the year, it is definitely advisable to check on the particular occasion of national holidays or the month of Ramadan. So, regularly, you will find the palace open on:
Summers (somewhere between April and September): 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Winters (somewhere between October and March): 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
Visiting the palace soon after it opens is usually a smart plan to escape the larger crowds and mid-day heat, especially during hot months. Another good time of day for a visit is in the late afternoon when the light is quite beautiful for photography.
Getting There: Finding Your Way to the Badi Palace
The El Badi Palace is located at the heart of the medina of Marrakech, so it should not be much of a walk as you stay within the old city walls. It’s located on the south side of the medina, not quite far from the Bahia Palace and the Mellah (old Jewish quarter). Visiting both palaces is quite possible within one day.
If you are staying outside the medina, you will find taxis aplenty. Do ensure to settle the fare with the driver before starting the ride or get the meter switched on. Local buses do go to the area as well, but the bus circuit may be a bit difficult to follow for tourists.
If you get lost in the medina, just follow the signs for Palais El Badi or ask someone for directions. It could really get confusing at times taking this tessellated web of narrow alleys but it shouldn’t be too hard to find since it is a very famous landmark.
El Badi Palace Today: A Visitor’s Guide
Some other tips to consider for your visit to El Badi Palace ruins:
Wear Comfortable Shoes-There is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes. If you’re unsure what’s appropriate for the weather and cultural setting, check out our guide on what to wear in Marrakech for helpful tips.
Carry Water-Especially in hot months, the open courtyards can become really hot and there isn’t much shade.
Time Yourself to Visit
While you can view the highlights fairly quickly, do allow at least 1.5-2 hours to properly see everything, including the terraces and underground areas, and to absorb the ambiance.
Look for a Guide
A lot of the things mentioned here are for your convenience, but hiring a guide at the entrance will get you much deeper into the history, architecture, and the stories behind the palace. Be sure to agree on a price before accepting the tour.
Look for Details
Even in ruin, there are some faint traces of lovely old tilework still here, and gazing up, you will grasp the enormity of what once towered there. Take a moment to appreciate these small details and imagine the palace in its full glory.
Respect for the Place
It’s a historical site you’re walking through. Refrain from climbing any walls or messing with the remaining structures.
Combine with Other Attractions
As noted, the El Badi Palace is next to other major sites such as the Bahia Palace and the Mellah. You should plan to group your visit with these two sites to maximize your time in this area of Marrakech.
Photography
The ruins present excellent opportunities for photography, especially during the golden hour shortly after sunrise or before sunset. Get shots of the vastness of the courtyards, including details of the minbar and panoramic views from the terraces.
Wrapping Up
While it is true that El Badi Palace, located in Marrakech, is quite ruined, it offers a compelling journey into a world fast giving way before mankind’s advancement. One can stroll across its vast courtyard and picture the riches of the Saadian dynasty: from there, an enterprising visitor could climb down to underground passages and then walk up to terraces for splendid views. The wonderfully preserved Koutoubia Minbar in wood and ivory itself is a fine example of outstanding craftsmanship, while storks make it a resting ground amid the ruins of memory of nature. El Badi is bitterly the tale of the rise and fall of the great empire; what a fascinating site for the imagination and awe! One must come here for an important and memorable episode in Morocco’s history, which no visitor to Marrakech should miss.
