Menara Gardens


One of the attractions of Marrakech is the beautiful gardens of Menara. They were created in the 12th century at the request of the founder of the Almohad dynasty, Sultan Abd al-Mumin. The gardens of Menar are located outside the territory of Medina, in the western part of the city. This is a cozy corner for a tired traveler. They are considered one of the symbols of the city of Marrakech .

The gardens occupy an area of ​​about 100 hectares. There are more than 30,000 olive trees, as well as many orange and other fruit trees. In the gardens of Menara, plants imported from other countries were grown.

History

To the gardens in Morocco, a system of underground pipes running from the Atlas Mountains to a huge artificial lake and filling it with water is brought. Subsequently, water is used to irrigate gardens. There are facts that the lake was used to train soldiers before crossing the Mediterranean Sea towards Spain. Now the pond inhabits a lot of fish, which please visitors by jumping out of the water.

In the 19th century, near the lake, a gazebo with a pyramidal roof was erected. There is an opinion that it was this pavilion that gave the gardens the name of "menara". The interior is not very interesting, but the appearance is very beautiful. From the balcony opens a wonderful view - you can see the city with its central alley, the minaret of the mosque Kutubia and see the mountain peaks. The Pavilion is also used as an exhibition hall.

Legends

The history of the Menara Gardens is surrounded by many legends. In one of them it is said that the founder of the gardens of Sultan Abd al-Mumin nightly brought a new beauty. After a night of love, she disappeared in one of the innumerable pools, which were subsequently destroyed. Until now, in the gardens find female skeletons. Another says that on the territory of the Menara Gardens, the Almohad dynasty's treasures, selected from the conquered states, are kept.

The gardens are a great place to relax. This is where not only visiting visitors, but local residents, spend their time.

How to get there?

To get to the gardens you can walk from Jemaa al-Fna Square or by taxi.