Menara Gardens is a large public green space in Marrakech, Morocco, established as a royal retreat around 1157. It’s a large rectangular piece of land, approximately 1.25 x 0.75 km, which features extensive olive groves as well as some fruit (citrus and pomegranate) and cypress trees (windbreaks). At its center is a large rectangular reservoir (a sahrij) measuring 195 x 160 meters — a reflecting pool used historically primarily for water storage.
A photo of someone posing in front of the Menara reservoir was used as last weekend’s One Clue Mystery photo (see below). It was actually a cropped image of a larger photo, which follows. As usual, it was recognized by our talented travel sleuth, George G — congrats as always, George!
Menara Gardens is situated approximately 3 kilometers west of Marrakesh’s medina, and lies on a fairly flat plain. It’s close to the Marrakesh Menara Airport and is also not far from the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains.
The irrigation system of Menara Gardens relies on an ancient network of underground channels which transport water by gravity from aquifers in the Atlas Mountains. The system has worked well for centuries and delivers water without mechanical aid, sustaining the gardens in Marrakech’s semi-arid climate. This gravity-based design minimizes evaporation.
At the southern edge of the end of the pool is the gardens’ iconic Pavilion which was rebuilt in the 19th century atop older remnants of a pavilion dating to the 16th century. The Pavilion is a 2 story rectangular structure with a green tile roof. It has a small enclosed garden. The Pavilion served as a royal retreat for the sultan and his court.
Today Menara Gardens is a beloved public park — an oasis and a mecca for young lovers, walkers and family outings. It attracts visitors with its tranquil ambiance in an otherwise bustling city. There is no admission fee.
The Menara Gardens was included as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Medina of Marrakesh”, which was awarded in 1985.
**************************************************************
For more of my Morocco posts please click on this link.
